ACLU gets new director
Her goal is protection of eroding American values
As a diplomat serving overseas, Victoria Middleton worked on three continents trying to promote American principles of democracy, the rule of law and human rights.
Middleton
At noon Thursday, she was installed as the new director of the South Carolina American Civil Liberties Union, taking over an office that had been shut down by the national board for its lack of a heartbeat.
"You appreciate even more the freedoms we have," Middleton said during an interview Thursday while discussing her exposure to often heavy-fisted governments abroad. "And you want to protect them."
Middleton, 59 and originally from New Jersey, said she wanted the South Carolina job to help protect basic American values, some of which are in danger of eroding as the fundamentals of liberty seem to be colliding with evolving security.
"If we don't preserve our freedoms and have only safety, then we look a lot like some of these countries I've lived and worked in overseas," she said, "where individuals don't have the right to dissent and privacy's not protected and popular opinion or majority opinion can predominate."
Victoria Middleton
Here's biographical information on Victoria Middleton, the new executive director for the American Civil Liberties Union of South Carolina.
NAME: Victoria Middleton
AGE: 59
HOME: Born in Pitman, N.J.
FAMILY: One son, age 18.
EDUCATION: 1971, Bryn Mawr College. 1979, University of California at Berkeley, M.A. and Ph.D.
EXPERIENCE: 1979, taught English at Franklin and Marshall University. 1987-2005, stints with the U.S. Department of State in Manila, Philippines; Calcutta, India; Tallinn, Estonia; Prague, Czech Republic; and Finland. 2005-07, director of the Office of Nordic and Baltic Affairs, European Bureau. 2007-08, director of the Office of Asia and Western Hemisphere Affairs, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor.
Middleton's recent resume includes serving as director of the State Department's Office of Asia and Western Hemisphere Affairs. Her duties included supporting freedom of the press, free and fair elections and encouraging Internet access in places such as Cuba, China, Colombia and Vietnam.
She's also been exposed to numerous intimidations and threats, ranging from following government coups to young Iraqis who blew themselves up in the Philippines in a precursor to the current war on terror.
Middleton succeeds Graham Boyd, who has been the group's interim director since July when the national ACLU moved to revitalize its South Carolina presence. The state headquarters is now in Charleston.
During an interview Thursday, she answered various questions about issues facing the state that the non-partisan group plans to follow.
What do you see as the biggest threat to liberties in South Carolina today?
Middleton is still gauging the state's climate but said reaching out to groups that are under-represented at the voting booth, such as formerly convicted felons, is one area.
"One thing that is becoming clearer to me is there needs to be more information extended to people," she said.
How does the ACLU gain a niche in a conservative red state?
Middleton pointed out the group is non-partisan and that their goal is extending existing opportunities to all who are entitled, something she said is a core value for all Americans.
"I think we'll intersect on values of protecting those freedoms and liberties," she said.
Previous Story
ACLU is seeking input from public; Survey, meetings to help focus priorities in state, published 08/22/08
How do you approach attitudes of people willing to give up some freedoms in exchange for security?
"If you respond in fear and your lives as citizens are controlled by that, then you are giving up the freedoms," she said. "This is exactly what hostile regimes would like to see. We need to be strong but we also need to be vigilant about protecting those liberties and rights that makes us Americans."
Reach Schuyler Kropf at 937-5551, or skropf@postandcourier.com.
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Comments
This article has 90 comment(s)
Posted by NativeSon on October 31, 2008 at 4:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think the biggest priority for the american criminal liberties union (aclu) is to leave America and take you criminal butt kissers with you!
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 5:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
From the article: "What do you see as the biggest threat to liberties in South Carolina today? ...reaching out to groups that are under-represented at the voting booth, such as formerly convicted felons, is one area."
Here's an idea... "PROTECT THE LIBERTIES OF THE INNOCENT CRIME VICTIMS!!!"
If criminals were treated the way they should be treated, we would not have to consider giving up our freedoms in exchange for security. All violent criminals should receive the death penalty, all non-violent criminals should receive longer prison sentences and prison should be bare bones detention center with none of the tax payer provided frills that convicts now enjoy. Convicted felons should never have a say in the way our government is operated. Never.
Victoria Middleton is a failure as an adult human being.
Posted by moonpie on October 31, 2008 at 6:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ACLU DEFENDING "American principles of democracy" MY ASS!
AMEN CB PROTECT THAT YOUNG MAN WHO WAS KILLED BY THE ILLEGAL ALIEN DRIVER. HOW ABOUT IT ACLU DEFEND THE U.S. CITZENS. FORMERLY CONVICTED FELONS? DON'T WE HAVE A LAW ON THE BOOKS FOR THAT NOW? WHY DOES THAT NEED DEFENDING. YOUR STAY IN SC WILL BE SHORT LIVED.
Posted by MP on October 31, 2008 at 6:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
So now we have a new CCH - chief criminal hugger.
Posted by ballachulish on October 31, 2008 at 6:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm not a fan of the ACLU, after all they represented Rush Limbaugh in his effort to hide his medical records that showed he was illegally drug shopping & getting RX's under false names.
Yeah, they do represent the scum of the Earth.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 7:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Spanky....
How's your application coming along for BATF. Let me know if you need a reference. I'll give you one.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Spanky...
Thank God for ACLU???
You don't believe in God.
Posted by theronce on October 31, 2008 at 7:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I count it as a mark of the great strength and forbearance to the American people and their values to tolerate a subversive organization such as this that does so much to undermine the Constitution. Not everyone is fooled by their words. Look at their works.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 7:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
She’s 59, graduated from the University of California at Berkeley so she was there in the late 1960s to greet our troops coming home from the war in South Vietnam. I wonder if she was one of those radicals at Berkeley waving the Viet-Cong flag at the troops?
Posted by LI58 on October 31, 2008 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
To spankerbuns: I have news for you. The ACLU and the NAACP are going to end up with egg on their faces for being even remotely behind Obama for president. Just think about this for a moment. Barack Obama is Arab! Research his family background! His name is a clue. I can't wait to someday see his birth certficate! Most people voting for him are overseeing that fact of course. Arabs have always practiced and still practice slavery to this day. I just spent one year in Saudi Arabia. Westerner's who live and work in Saudi Arabia know this to be a fact of life there. Research it! Most Saudi families "own" at least one slave per household. They clean the homes, taxi the Saudi children to school and the wives to the malls. The slaves even cook for the Saudi families. Most Saudi's do none of the aforementioned chores themselves. Now if that is not a conflict of interest to the overall cause of the ACLU and the NAACP, I don't know what is!
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If you want to have an idea what civil rights means to the ACLU then I would recommend reading George Orwell’s book Animal Farm. George Orwell was a socialist and he had an interesting way of viewing socialists.
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 7:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ms. Middleton, if you happen to be reading these remarks, please click on the user-id of spankerbuns. Once doing that, you can select, under Comments Posted, "View All". Read some of them. See who your supporters are? There is one more of spanky's type that post on this website, but I can't remember his/her name. The rest of your supporters can't post as they are already in prison. I'm sure spanky will join then when he moves out of mommy's house and tries to make it on his own...
Posted by YankeeLady on October 31, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You can indeed believe in God and support the ACLU. The narrow mindedness of you blinder-wearing conservatives masks your fear of being threatened by anyone who disagrees with your world view. LI58 is an example of the ignorance that thrives on fear.
Posted by nofear on October 31, 2008 at 8:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It seems that most of you have conveniently overlooked the fact that she's spent the last 20 years at the US State Department under multiple administrations.
"Stints with the Dept. of State in Manila, Philippines; Calcutta, India; Tallinn, Estonia; Prague, Czech Republic; and Finland. 2005-07, director of the Office of Nordic and Baltic Affairs, European Bureau. 2007-08, director of the Office of Asia and Western Hemisphere Affairs, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor."
I hardly think that qualifies her to be a crazy liberal unless you also think that Condoleeza Rice falls into that category.
What is wrong with you people?
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 8:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
balla...
It's good PR to represent right-wingers ever now and then. It’s this thing about image but we all know who they are and what they are. They’re real enemies are the conservatives. Spanky would agree with me on that point. That's why I like Spanky, he is honest in his beliefs.
Posted by Tulane75 on October 31, 2008 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
When did notions of Due Process and the Bill of Rights become left-wing, liberal propositions?
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
No Fear...
Apparently you haven’t read the theories of Antonio Gramsci.
Posted by Tides on October 31, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't fully support the ACLU, but most of their cases have protected us. It's the strange cases that always get the attention of the media.
Why isn't SC enforcing it's auto window tint law anymore?
Posted by theronce on October 31, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well, I don't see anything wrong with due process and the bill of rights. In fact, I am a great admirer of many liberal minded Americans, commonly refered to as the Founding Fathers. Modern liberals have lost their way. Also, I have no doubt that Satan believes in God also. I do not fear a liberal; I just keep my eye on them.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 8:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think what bothers me about liberals is they won’t come out and say they are socialists. Here is an organization that was clearly founded by Marxists. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t have a problem with Marxists providing they don’t push their belief system onto me. I’m sorry to say that is not how the world works. To them it’s all about power not results. We can look at all the experiments of socialism and it’s failure to provide for the people. The component that attracts people like Middleton is control over people’s lives. That’s why the left is so attracted to Islam and it’s ability to control people. Freedom to choose the way we want to live doesn’t exist in the vocabulary of a socialist. That’s why I left the LEFT COAST. Like a bad penny they followed me. Now I got to figure out where to go from here.
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This woman was asked what her agenda in our state would be and the first, and only, answer she came up with was in support of criminals. What does thinking that criminals do not need our support have to do with religion, politics, liberalism or conservatism???? Absolutely nothing. The agenda is wrong. Period. You don't have to fall in to a category of any kind to see that. Not everything boils down to politics. Somethings are just straight forward right or wrong.
Posted by guidedbystewart on October 31, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Conservatives love to demoniize anything that gives others a voice. Makes me wonder, what are they so afraid of?
Posted by Tides on October 31, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I wish the ACLU would rip the Charleston County Family Court a new ... .. .
Posted by nofear on October 31, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hi, Riptide - Actually, I have. Surely you aren't suggesting that the current administration and the ACLU are bed partners in some conspiracy to exploit the masses? If so, then I ask you what you suggest is the solution? If not, then can you tell me how you think Gramsci's theories are relevant to Ms. Middleton's hiring and qualifications?
Posted by Nonsense on October 31, 2008 at 8:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
UC Berkeley - that says it all - doesn't it?
Posted by GG on October 31, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Coldbud - Do you mean John Q. Public?
I think Spanker and JQP are really the same person. And I have always thought he still lives at home with his Mommy, probably in a basement, and hunched over his computer with an angry scowl on his face. He was a social retard in school and now is developing his persona as a serial maniac. Let's hope Mommy has locked that basement door.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)
nofear...
Are you on the radar screen or off?
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GG
I got a bad feeling Spanky is walking amongst us. Look at Middleton, she just another version of the same coin.
Posted by oldglory on October 31, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Omigosh, a little lightness here please!
Two things I find annoying as all get out --
1. The Republican whatevers here in SC that are using automated phone calls every single evening to make me mad. And probably the Democratic whatevers are doing the same thing. Which means that SC political committees are . . . Y'all fill in that last sentence. BUT I pay for my telephone, I use my telephone only in emergencies, I don't own a cellphone (because I hate having unknowns call me), and I feel MY civil liberties are being encroached upon!
2. Speaking of gods . . . what about that football god that tells all the teams that they are the special one?
Maybe I'm too sleepy yet for you all to consider the humor. Oh well.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
oldglory...
I had the same problem. Got rid of my land line and it's just the cell phone. Life is great now.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Socialists mainly share the belief that capitalism unfairly concentrates power and wealth among a small segment of society that controls capital and creates an unequal society.
With Exxon Mobile making another record breaking profit, while gas soared to $4.00 per gallon. Milk is still over $4.00 per gallon, all goods and trade prices rose, SCE&G gets another rate hike, the republican administration's 850 million dollar (with the earmarks/bribes) bailout of CEO's with golden parachutes..............................hmmmmmm spreading the wealth around sounds like a pretty good idea!
Back on topic - the ACLU still has a job to do and I kind of like the Bill of Rights and I am glad there is an organization that works to protect them!
Posted by crankyyankee on October 31, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Conservatives love to demoniize anything that gives others a voice. Makes me wonder, what are they so afraid of?"
We're afraid we worked our entire lives to watch those that haven't use the political system to take what we have saved in our lives! The fact that people with no vested interest in this Country (no property, no job, receiving Government subsistance and no motivation to change) can and are voting to reward themselves on the workers spoils. That's the way I see it! There's no Constitutional right to vote and it's past time to look at how our system works and understand that giving those with no investment in our Country the keys to the vault is insane. Jusy my $.02.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
No constitutional right to vote..........it is a duty!
Posted by crj3279 on October 31, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well said, cranky! That's why the Founding Fathers made property-ownership a requirement for voting. And why are liberals always going on about how conservatives are "afraid" of things? Any time someone stands up for what is right, decent and truly American the bed-wetting libs claim he's afraid or trying to foment fear.
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Outstanding post crankyyankee!
oldglory... there is no god of football. There are only two gods. The Beer God (who performs double-duty as the Fishing God), and the God of Thunder and Rock-n-Roll, who, as everyone knows... is Gene Simmons :)
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Spider…
Believe me I try to understand your sense of entitlement. You see people working hard and enjoying their lives. Deep down you have this resentment. You want to punish people for working hard and enjoying the fruits of their labor. You want to take their money, their means to protect themselves but most of all you want control over people. Some people think there’s a cure for liberalism but personally I don’t think there is a cure.
Posted by hotchick on October 31, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Holy smoley guys! How can you all start up with such negative attitudes so early in the morning? Nativeson started at 4:35! I read these comments each day. Some are for a laugh, but lately there seems to be so much venom that I'm thinking of stopping. I think what others from outside Charleston must think of us if they look at the comments. Just from this morning's paper, there are comments in other stories that all immigrants are criminals (need I remind you that most of us have as ancestors immigrants who came here to have a better life?), anyone who is a liberal is an atheist, anyone who is a conservative is a member of the KKK. No wonder South Carolina is as messed up as it is. Those who are extremists on both sides of the spectrum seem to be the ones who make the most comments. I'm afraid that they are also the ones that will be sure to vote for their most like-minded candidate. On the other hand, maybe it is the campaigning that is getting everyone so cranky. You hear and see negative campaigning everywhere you go and it tends to rub off. Maybe things will improve after Tues.
Regarding this article, I just can't imagine who would want to represent the ACLU in South Carolina. I don't think it would be a very popular position.
Posted by exorcist_pencocky4u on October 31, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
spankerbuns - So what are you desperately trying to say. You have created god in your own image.
God created each and every one of us. God gave each and every one of us "Freedom of Choice".
Some choose wisely and do the right stuff.
What was it that you choose to do?
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
exorcist_pencocky4u, I do feel obligated to point out that your god did not create me. My mom and dad created me in what just had to be an awesome sexual experience :) Had your god been there, I'm sure he/she/it would have been blushing :)
Posted by oldglory on October 31, 2008 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
oldglory... there is no god of football. There are only two gods. The Beer God (who performs double-duty as the Fishing God), and the God of Thunder and Rock-n-Roll, who, as everyone knows... is Gene Simmons :)
-------------------------------
LMAO @ CB - I just knew it was you! Had to test you though. My Rock-n-Roll god is a bit older than yours, dammit!
Oh! and CHEERS to your mom and dad! They definitely did the right thing.
Posted by crj3279 on October 31, 2008 at 10:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
HOTCHICK- No one said all immigrants are criminals. The comment was that all ILLEGAL immigrants are criminals, which, by virtue of the fact that they broke the law to get here, is patently true.
Posted by crj3279 on October 31, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Get Serious- Get a sense of humor
Posted by tc1 on October 31, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
hotchick,
"(need I remind you that most of us have as ancestors immigrants who came here to have a better life?),"
This will be correct if you edit it to - Legal - immigrants.
HTH
Posted by guidedbystewart on October 31, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"We're afraid we worked our entire lives to watch those that haven't use the political system to take what we have saved in our lives! The fact that people with no vested interest in this Country (no property, no job, receiving Government subsistance and no motivation to change) can and are voting to reward themselves on the workers spoils. That's the way I see it! There's no Constitutional right to vote and it's past time to look at how our system works and understand that giving those with no investment in our Country the keys to the vault is insane. Jusy my $.02."
There is one big fallacy with your statement. It is based on the assumption that the poor and middle class do not work hard. THIS IS TOTALLY NOT TRUE! Are there poor people that are lazy and mooch of the system, sure. Are there rich and spoiled people that mooch off there parents and their inheritance, hell yes. The fact is laziness is not a class issue, but is spread across the board. The fact is that many poor people have to work harder just to make ends meet. I know, life is not fair, but demonize others just because some wants to give them a voice is also a crock. The fact is the middle class are the ones that really lack a true voice, not the poor or the rich. Now that is my .02 cents worth!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Rip - I find it funny that you seem to think progressives don't have jobs, pay taxes, raise families, obey the laws......no we are some "nut job liberals" on welfare.
You tell me how it is OK for Exxon Mobile to rape us and reap record breaking profits? You tell me how it is OK for a senior to have to decide between their medication or food, how one illness can bankrupt a family that has insurance and has worked all their adult lives. You tell me how it is OK to have our administration break the laws of the land and use warrantless wiretapping and confiscating e-mails (less government intrusion, RIGHT).
My family is not financially challenged, so I know that there are wealthy people in America that think the same way I do.....what I also find humorous is that the poor white guy that has a dream of being rich will actually vote for McCain thinking that by following the Socs crowd will make him acceptable to their world! Greasers will always be Greasers is the Socs’ eyes. He will never be allowed to be part of their gang and their wealth came from his sweat. But he will never understand the degree that he has been used, he will only aspire to be the user!
SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS! AND WHAT DO WE HAVE FROM YOUR SIDE OF THE AISLE????? MORE OF THE SAME! I think I’ll go with giving my fellow man a hand up!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Poor Poor Pious Jane, you silly little girl! The public donated their hard earned money to Obama, not McCain! If the public had wanted McCain to have it they would have donated it to his campaign.
See that is how it should work, you pick a candidate and you support them. Oh, but wait, that IS what the public decided, isn't it?
Posted by wjhamilton3 on October 31, 2008 at 10:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We should be glad anyone in the National ACLU organization believes SC is worth funding a office for. Nothing is funnier than a right wing conservative who gets pulled over for DUI and starts demanding all the constitutional rights they don't believe a minority or poor person should have. I've seen it in my law practice. SC may never escape the Plantation. It's full of people who want to oppress others and short of people who understand that freedom should belong to everyone. I suppose, eventually, the population will sort itself out so that the rednecks have their own states, but that takes a long time. A lot of us are still in the wrong states, taking care of elderly parents, trying to sell our houses and helping run churches and other organizations we're committed to. It will get sorted out some day and SC will be the right wing paradise you dream of. If you can't wait, there's Idaho, Utah, Alaska and Texas now.
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 10:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
SpiderJohn, you're 100% correct in that the public made the donations and those donations should stay where they were donated. Much like I made my money and my money should where I want it to stay. Redistribution of wealth... any wealth... is a slipperly slope. That was Jane's point.
I have an Obama Halloween mask... I'm going to wear it tonight. When the kids walk up cheerfully hollering "Trick or Treat", I'm going to tell them that THEY have to give ME some of their candy so that I can redistribute it to the kids that are too lazy to trick or treat.
The only people I want to support besides myself and my family are those that truely cannot work due to physical or mental issues. If you're lazy, that is not my fault. If you did not make the most of your public education and now you can't get a good job, that is not my fault. If you are a convicted criminal, that is not my fault. If you cannot spend your money wisely, that is not my fault. I am not working hard so that I can fix your short comings.
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on October 31, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
nofear- "stints"? Are you aware of the definition of the word stint? Condoleezza Rice doesn't have "stints" in a few places. She has actually accomplished things and is a very bright woman. There is no comparison. This idiot couldve at least made her self come off better than she did. Convicted felons? What about tackling problems the public actually gives a crap about? One problem with the ACLU is that they think you have the right to do ANYTHING without regard to others. They follow right in with the obnoxious "you owe me,I can do whatever I want" generation.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
How do you think this country is supposed to run if no one pays taxes?
You are a bunch of ding dongs....who will pave the streets, police the streets, educate our children, who do you think will put out a fire at your house?
This is the way our country functions, I pay my taxes and I'm happy that means all children can receive an education. I pay my taxes and I am happy that a retired senior can afford food and medication. I pay my taxes and I'm glad to know that a veteran can get services.
So, who do you think will provide all of these services? The middle class can't do it we are all too tired from working 55 hours a week, raising our children, paying our bills, mowing our grass and generally carrying this country. Do you think the Exxon Mobiles in this world are going to do it? Hell no, they will pollute our waters and walk away; they will cause damage beyond repair and get a tax break. They will massage relationships with foreign nations of terror and bend us over with no foreplay.
If McCain needs Obama's money I say it speaks loudly that the public does not support McCain or they would have sent their money to him instead!
I got the joke by the way; I just don't find it funny!
Cold - have you been listening to Neil Boortz? I heard that little Halloween joke as well. If you are going to copy someone at least give kudos where kudos are deserved.
So if a guy gets busted at 18 for a felony drug charge he should never be allowed to vote again?
GREED GREED GREED - the haves and the have nots - it's mine and I would rather die than help you - you can't have any - you won't know how to do it right if I allow you to have it - you will only waste it - fill in your reason for crapping all over the most needy and the most vulnerable citizens.
WOW you are such great human beings; I hope I get to be just like you when I grow up! Selfish, self absorbed azz holes!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Poor Poor Pious Jane - if you want to bow your head, go right ahead. But don't expect me to quietly sit by as your force me to hear a prayer to YOUR Jesus at a publicly funded event!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The ACLU Continues to fight against our rights...to bow our head in prayer at a public function.... See it is all about you isn't it?
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
spiderjohn, actually I don't know who Neil Boortz is, so no, I've never listened to him. I actually thought of my little Halloween funny all by myself. :)
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Evil - I say go for it Obama! I think you guys are just pissed because the republitards cannot get the same amount of supporters! And it's not like you guys haven't tried to figure out the perfect loopholes for contributions for the past 20 years.
Oh no wait, you guys just get the bribes!
Got to love it....you guys (the richies) are the ones biitching about not having enough money!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH tribute to RW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Cold - WTMA has a good one about a waiter and redistributing his tip to the homeless person on the street.
Same same
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
And yes, I feel that if a guy gets busted at 18 on a felony drug charge, he should never be allowed to vote again. Why should criminals get a voice in saying what law abiding citizens can and can't do???
As for paying taxes, I have no problem with that at all. I just wish the tax revenue was spent better. We have way too much waste, fraud and abuse in ALL of our government programs.
Posted by usna04 on October 31, 2008 at 11:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Cold Bud and Jane
Nice posts. I completely agree 100%.
By the way Cold Bud, you're going to scare those children half to death! haha
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Poor Poor Pious Jane - maybe he doesn't like his family in Africa. I know for darn tootin' sure there are several of my relatives that I wouldn't give a dime to. I don't know him personally, and I do not have ESPN2 to divine such information.
I am not talking about charity. I'm talking about schools, infrastructure, police, fire departments, all those things we take for grant.
I understand profits Jane - but why was our gas at $4.00 per gallon? So, it is OK for a company to reap record profits and families have to figure out how to get to work, or if they get to eat Ramen Noodles instead of hamburger?
And McCain doesn't have any fat cats working in his campaign? Please it is politics and I'm going with the winning team!
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Because a teenager that makes a mistake can become a stand up citizen. You all are so fast to throw away people!
Evolve damn you, EVOLVE!
Posted by MP on October 31, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
wjhamilton3, you are obviously bigoted and extremely narrow minded. You give lawyers a bad name and, promise me, that takes effort.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Evil - you are a nut! One of those wack jobs that thinks we should get rid of public education. Is that a libetard or contitutuhead?
At least Obama isn't the guy with 12 lobbyists working for his campaign.
McCain's Lobbyist Friends Rally 'Round Their Man
Group: Campaign Finance Reformer Has the Most Lobbyists Raising Campaign Money
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=4...
See I can cut & paste as well!
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on October 31, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Evil- I think I'll sit home and not take the kids out trick or treating. I'll sit on my porch wearing an O'Bama mask and steal 39% of all of the kids candy who come to my door. Afterall, why should my kids have to walk around and get the candy for themselves? I'll just steal it- because thats "fair".
Posted by usna04 on October 31, 2008 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
LOL coolfreaknbeans
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 12:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 11:46 a.m.: Because a teenager that makes a mistake can become a stand up citizen. You all are so fast to throw away people!
A "teenager mistake" is speeding, maybe even drag racing... shoplifting a pack of bubblegum, drinking underage, fighting, throwing eggs at trick-or-treaters... none of which are felonies. You can even use drugs and only get a misdemeanor drug violation. Felonies are different. Convicted felons should not be allowed to vote. Contrary to Ms. Middleton's statement, there is no such thing as a formerly convicted felon. Once you become a convicted felon, you will always be a convicted felon unless a court overturns that conviction.
I'm just fed up with crime. I'm fed up with innocent, hard working citizens being victimized by criminal dirt bags. I do not believe that convicted criminals deserve any breaks. They knew the law, and the consequences of breaking the law, before they decided to take part in the criminal behavior. Why should I care what "liberties" they have or don't have?
Posted by usna04 on October 31, 2008 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I know I don't give a crap.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Poor Poor Pious Jane - maybe he doesn't like his family in Africa. I know for darn tootin' sure there are several of my relatives that I wouldn't give a dime to. I don't know him personally, and I do not have ESPN2 to divine such information.
I said I don't know.....see how easy that is, I don't know. Yet you write as if you have some divine power to know the heart of a person?
Is that one of those new fangled Jesus powers from bowing your head?
I think you are wrong about Obama hating anyone. Even he will not get down in the dirt the way we all do on these posts. Last night he was on Maddow and she couldn't get him to rise to the bait of saying bad things about the right.
I'm not scared of the big black man, why are you?
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Spider…
I grew up poor…no big deal, it was the cards that was dealt to me. Adversity is a part of life and I managed to overcome it. The value of one’s labor is determine by education, skill, experience, personal initiative, and a host of other things. Anybody can make it in this world if they applied themselves. I have watch the results of 6 trillion dollars pour into the war on poverty over the decades with no results to show for. Socialists are not concern with results they’re more about power and control. They’ve did a pretty good job on the black community in keeping them in poverty now Obama wants to put the middle class into poverty.
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rip - you are not listening to the fact check sites.
Your words are not based on facts as far as Obama's economic plan. Go check them out and then come back and we'll talk.
I understand hard work and pulling yourself up and out of poverty. I lived it, but for you to make statements that are completely wrong....I have to call you on it.
He is talking about growing the middle class; you know the ones that do all the work! You can only grow the middle class with jobs! Where in McCain's blow hard plans does he explain how he will grow jobs?
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
40 years ago I may have listen to you and I would have given you the benefit of the doubt. Again, it not what you say but watch what you do and I’ve been watching you guys on the left coast and the results is a train wreak.
Socialists get their power from big government. The bigger the government the more control and power they have. Big government requires an ever expanding role into people’s lives and a larger tax base to manage it. I’ve never heard of a liberal or socialist advocating for smaller government. Government can not do anything efficiently and if you don’t believe me go to any university, college, government agency and watch how efficiently they do business. Watch how they pass out grants and to who they pass these grants out to. Our legislature pass out pork like it was Christmas every day. Socialist are concern with one thing only and that is power and power means control over peoples lives.
I do not want to live under liberalism, but socialism is not about choice.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 1:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
spider..
The above comment is direct to you.
Posted by hillbilly on October 31, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ms Middleton, don't unpack your suitcase.
The only things I've seen your bunch do is support baby killers(calling it women's rights) and helping to remove God from the public forum.
Go find a real job.
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Quote: Her goal is protection of eroding American values
This is proof that anybody can live the big lie, make a career from it and feel good about it.
When she was at Berkeley as a young radical, waving the Viet Cong flag showing disrespect for our troops coming home from Vietnam... was she practicing American values? The Vietnamese people who move from the North to South Vietnam choose not to live under communism. Middleton like the communists in North Vietnam do not believe in freedom to choose. Freedom don’t exist in their mindset. It's all about control.
Posted by mkris on October 31, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by Tulane75 on October 31, 2008 at 8:15 a.m.
When did notions of Due Process and the Bill of Rights become left-wing, liberal propositions?
In 1865 with the end of the War of Northern Agression!
Posted by theronce on October 31, 2008 at 2:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think highly of the Bill of Rights and support them when and where I can. Years ago I had a boss who loved to take up a new sport or game of others and play them just long enough to beat them. He said that he loved to beat a man at his own game. That's how I view the ACLU, subverting us with the very tools that we rely on to protect us.
Posted by mkris on October 31, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by Jane on October 31, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. :
"We already have one of the highest corp. taxes in the world."
FALSE: Effective rates are higher than many, not all countries, but US corporate tax deductions and credits cause most of the US corporations to pay LESS taxes than overseas.
"That is why so many companies are leaving this country and taking middle class jobs with them."
FACT: US companies are leaving the US because the cost of LABOR, less stingent worker safety costs and employee HEALTHCARE is less than in the US. Worker safety in most developing countries is non-existant thereby allowing a corporation to reduce the cost of production by reducing the cost of safety measures to protect the worker. This cost of production also includes the cost of employee healthcare which in most other countries are costs paid by its government. This increases the effective use of corporate capital to lower cost production cost areas.
The bottom line profits are greater by outsourcing production to developing countries.
"Obama will let the Bush tax cuts expire in 2010. That is a de facto tax raise. A person making $32,000 a year will pay about $1000 more per year under Obama just by letting Bush's tax cuts expire."
FACT: AN OUTRIGHT LIE.
TaxImpact of the Obama Tax Plan
Married Couple Making $75,000 with two children, one of whom is in college $3,700 tax cut [includes $1,000 Making Work Pay; $500 universal mortgage credit; and $4,000 college credit net of current college credits]
Married Couple making $90,000 $1,000 Single Parent making $40,000 with two young children and childcare expenses. $2,100 [includes $500 making work pay; $500 universal mortgage credit, and $1,100 from Obama expansion of the child care tax credit] 70-Year Old Widow Making $35,000 $1,900
ANY MORE LIES FROM THE REPUBLCIANS?
Posted by ColdBud on October 31, 2008 at 2:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Obama has kooties :)
Posted by a_set_love on October 31, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey mkris, Obamas people are going around the country, quietly playing down all the impossible promises Obama made.
Though, if the truth be known, the mind numbed robots supporting Obama won't believe it until their taxes skyrocket in 2010.
THAT'S WHEN THE RIOTS START.
...NoBama-08....Obama says "Bill of Rights, Bill of Rights, we don't need no stinking, Bill of Rights!"
Posted by MP on October 31, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MKRIS, let me ask a question. When you increase taxes on business, what happens? Think about it. Who ultimately pays ALL taxes? The consumer. Everyone else in the chain just passes the increased cost on down. The consumer has no one to pass anything to. So, when you increase business taxes you are really taking more money out of the pockets of the last guy in line - you and I. So, who is really lying to whom?
Posted by guidedbystewart on October 31, 2008 at 3:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
a_set_love
"Obama says "Bill of Rights, Bill of Rights, we don't need no stinking, Bill of Rights!""
Really, where and when did Obama say that quote?????
Posted by SpiderJohn on October 31, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rip - obviously life has its toll. I hate to think that I will become jaded.
I do not want a socialist government any more than I want communism, but I do want a country where all its citizens care about and for each other. That we come together as a nation and move towards a better life for everyone.
I don't understand this over whelming fear the right has for Obama. He has stated categorically that he is not going to raise taxes on 95% of Americans they will actually get a deduction. That is you and me!
Big government would be what we have under Bush, warrantless wire tapping and e-mail collections. That is Animal Farm; that is 1984! If you are frightened by government in your bedroom and the boardroom just stick with the same Bush policies and vote McCain. AND if you want a government that is effective and efficient than vote for Obama!
Posted by Riptide on October 31, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Spider....
I submit to you, do you as a liberal/socialist believe that people have a right to live their lives the way they see fit and be governed the way they want to be governed? I believe if you’re a liberal or socialist, then you have no right to force a non socialist to live under socialism. This country was founded on states rights and the beauty about states rights is that if you don’t like the way the state is governed you can move to another state. Socialism is not about states rights, it about a highly centralized federal government that subordinates the rights of the state to the central government and the only way it can be governed is by force. I realize we live in a dangerous world and we need a federal government to deal with it. But I don't believe we should give the federal government that much power. This woman Middleton subscribes to a belief system that gives more power to a centralize government where ruling elites makes the decisions how we should govern our lives.
I believe in helping people too but not by spreading the wealth and getting people dependant on government programs. The problem with that scenario people will get use to having the government solving their problems as oppose to them dealing with it themselves.
Posted by a_set_love on October 31, 2008 at 4:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Liberal Socialist Democrat Sen. Christopher Dodd, under investigation, for corruption according to NBC news. Next comes Barney Frank and Obama.
..NoBama-08....Obama says "Bill of Rights, Bill of Rights, we don't need no stinking, Bill of Rights!"
Posted by a_set_love on October 31, 2008 at 6:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yea but GetSerious, you won't have to worry about Obamas finger on any button..........The Democrat party announces a minimum 25% across the board cut in funding for the defense of the USA.
.....NoBama-08....Obama says "Bill of Rights, Bill of Rights, we don't need no stinking, Bill of Rights!"
Posted by a_set_love on October 31, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Obama has let it slip that he has used hard drugs in the past. How do I know he isn't still a user along with Mrs. Obama?
Obama, talk about an empty suit, he stands for "CHANGE" and will bring "CHANGE" to america.
Using the old standard tripe of promise everything and do nothing.
..NoBama-08....Obama says "Bill of Rights, Bill of Rights, we don't need no stinking, Bill of Rights!"
Posted by mkris on October 31, 2008 at 7:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by MP on October 31, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. MKRIS, let me ask a question. When you increase taxes on business, what happens? The consumer has no one to pass anything to. So, when you increase business taxes you are really taking more money out of the pockets of the last guy in line - you and I. So, who is really lying to whom?
____________________________________________
Well, you're lying to the extent that you're not consistent applying basic buiness cost models.
Only to the extent that the consumer will accept the additional cost. If the cost of production of a particular product increases to the point that the consumer does not buy it, the business decreases its costs in other areas, decreases its profit margin or goes out of business. My first suggestion is reducing CEO, CFO and executive compensation to reduce the cost of the product. Less than 20 years ago No CEO made more than 40 times the average wage in teh business.... TODAY that cost is over 500 times.
Posted by JLWDALFAN on October 31, 2008 at 7:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This whole Obama ticket is an outrage. I don't care about race here, I care that you are indeed a citizen of the U.S
If he would release his birth certificate, I would freeze in my track before I vote for him. Would everyone read his book called Audacity of Hope. It will make you think twice before you vote for him, especially if you are white.
Posted by LI58 on November 1, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Spankerbuns, soon the truth will come out about Obama. You are going to be so embarrassed! I can't wait for your apology.
Posted by a_set_love on November 1, 2008 at 9:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You have got to laugh when you see the pathetic liar Obama haul out his supporters like the IMPEACHED President Clinton and his wife as witnesses as to why we should vote for him.
Others that have actively supported him include the home grown, Liberal Terrorist, Ayers whose book includes a page honoring the crazed killer Sirhan Sirhan. The former PLO Terrorist leader now an honored staff member of Liberal Academia.
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on November 1, 2008 at 6:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
GetSerious I would understand your point if O'Bama didnt know her, I really would. But this is a woman he felt close enough to, to reference in his book. Not some super distant twice removed cousin he never met. My point is how can O'Bamas supporters think he'll bring people together, pull them out of poverty and provide humane legal paths to citizenship if he can't help his own Aunt? An Aunt he used in his own book to make a buck. I'm still waiting to find out what O'Bama meant in his speech when he said " a typical white person". Wow. Imagine if John McCain had said "a typical black person". Now who appears racist?
Posted by coolfreaknbeans on November 2, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GetSerious- I am not so naive that I fully trust ANY politician. LOL