The latest edition to Blue Water Comic's Political Power series hits the stands at the end of this month. Recently, I sat down with Reagan Comic author Don Smith to get his take on America's 40th president as a man, leader, husband, father and architect of the collapse of the "Evil Empire".
Click over to Parcbench for the full interview, but here's an excerpt:
“Was the Soviet Union an ‘Evil Empire?’ Was President Ronald Reagan at the right place and right time when it collapsed? Or was he one of the shrewdest occupants of the White House? Find out how this Mid-Western-turned-actor-turned-President went from B-movies to orchestrating the total collapse of the Soviet Union.”
Such were the questions comic book writer Don Smith sought to answer in his brief re-telling of the story of the man countless Americans remember with utmost pride, respect and admiration.
I recently had the privilege of interviewing Don about his latest effort, his foray into comic-book writing from newspaper journalism, and any future Blue Water projects he’s collaborating on.
In the interest of Full Disclosure, I also had the opportunity to read and review the Reagan comic back in October, per Smith’s request:
“In his own inimitable mixture of wit, creativity and humor, Don Smith pens a striking comic book biography of the man I consider to be America’s greatest modern President,” said author Daria DiGiovanni.
“Both those old enough to remember Ronald Reagan and those for whom he’s simply a chapter in a history textbook will delight in Smith’s vivid recollection of out 40th President’s remarkable life and impressive eight-year tenure. Thank you Don, for introducing him in such a brilliant way to a new generation of Americans, and for reminding the rest of us about Reagan’s patriotism, courage and integrity,” she noted.
Note: Don provided the first professional review for my book, Water Signs for Temerity Magazine back in May, 2009.
How exciting to be chosen to participate in this event this year! On January 10, 2010, I will be one of several authors speaking at the Delray Beach Library Eleventh Annual Author's Showcase. Later today, I will be interviewed by a local Boca Raton reporter - also a native Philadelphian - which should be a lot of fun.
If you live in South Florida, I hope you can join us on January 10. In the meantime, you can find Water Signs on Amazon.com and my website. Within the next few months, I plan to launch a site for my forthcoming sequel, Sea To Shining Sea. If I can keep myself on a disciplined track, the new book will be available by late-spring/early-summer.
The vile, anti- American health care bill that recently garnered 60 Democratic votes in the Senate, may in fact turn out to be quite a Christmas gift to the GOP. Maybe, that is, and I do mean maybe. Why do I say, maybe? Because a gift is only valuable to the receiver if he or she chooses to accept it. Are you listening Mr. Steele, because Santa has just come down your chimney. If you heed this advice, you will not only save your party but save your country.
What is the ghost of Christmas future telling you, Mr. Steele? The ghost is telling you to nationalize the congressional elections of 2010 and make the center piece of your campaign the reversal of this abomination. If you do so, you will not only gain majority status for the Republican Party you will do no less than save the nation. This is a purely Democratic bill without a single Republican vote. It will be easy to attack given its complete lack of bipartisanship, and the illegal backroom deals employed to buy the votes of key senators. There are no excuses now Mr. Steele. Expose the perpetrators, name names, go after the dinosaur media. On this Christmas 2009, now is the time for bold action. On the other hand, your failure to act boldly will result in the complete diminishment of your party and doom for America.
During this Christmas season of profound hope, peace, and joy we wish all of you, and most especially the heroes of our great American military, a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year. May all of our troops return home safely to their families some day soon.
The longest running Tea Party in the USA organized a thank you vigil for the US Military tonight at the corner of US 1 and Oakland Park Blvd. What a pleasure it was to stand with like-minded Americans in support of our troops and their families. We cannot thank them enough for all they do! May God bless our men and women in uniform this Christmas Season and throughout the year. We love you and support you always!
I've been hard at work on the sequel to my debut novel, Water Signs: A Story of Love and Renewal, which is available on my website in PDF and paperback, and on Amazon.com in Kindle and paperback. Hey, if you're looking for a Christmas gift that doesn't require a trip to the mall, check it out!
For those who've read Water Signs, Sea To Shining Sea picks up six months later in the lives of newly married couple, Ken and Madeline. Unlike my first effort, this second novel will take more of a political turn, reflecting current events and culture through the trials and tribulations of my main characters:
After sixteen tumultuous years, destined lovers Ken and Madeline Lockheart finally have it all—a blissful marriage, a beautiful home, two healthy children, fulfilling work and a renewed sense of faith and patriotism. But during one significant business trip abroad, the couple will personally discover just how treacherous and absurd the world has become.
When a joyous event becomes a source of contention with the “medical experts”, and an important telecomm deal implodes thanks to government-imposed political correctness, Ken transitions from successful sales executive to determined candidate for office. And while he’s always enjoyed a good reputation and the respect of his community, he’s in for a rude awakening as SunshineState politics quickly turns friends into enemies.
Having landed her man at last, Madeline valiantly endeavors to create close bonds with his offspring, in spite of their mother’s endless attempts to discredit her. In the wake of unexpected and simultaneously uplifting and tragic news, she’s forced to summon the same strength and courage that has always guided her in the past.
Spurred on by steadfast faith in God, genuine love of country and unwavering fidelity to each other, Ken and Madeline will ultimately come to understand the broader significance of their star-crossed union and the esoteric value of their journey to shining sea.
UPDATE: Somehow I'd forgotten to post a link to photos from my book signing at Saquella Cafe last month in Boca Raton. A big thank you to Avi, the owner and to Facebook friend Denise Righetti for setting it up.
Here's an excerpt from my latest Parcbench piece, inspired by a friend:
In yet another example of a liberal journalist bemoaning the concept of American pride and exceptionalism, Nick Fierro of the Chicago Tribune offers this response to the question, “What sports tradition would you like to see eliminated?”:
The national anthem should be eliminated from all but the most important sporting events in this country, such as Super Bowls, World Series and Ultimate Fighting title bouts.
Just kidding on the last one, but you should get the idea by now that having to stand for this song at every event and every level of sport from T-ball to the pros has become just a little ridiculous.
At one time, such as when this tradition began during World War II, it might have been a good idea to promote patriotism. Now, all it promotes is … nothing. It has become a mindless exercise.
Mindless exercise? Perhaps for people with no understanding of history and no concept of the miraculous circumstances surrounding the birth of a country founded by ordinary, courageous men who took on the world’s greatest power and risked certain death because of an unwavering commitment to freedom.
At great personal peril, our Founding Fathers forged ahead, spurred on by their deep conviction for Judeo-Christian principles and the right of individuals to control their own destiny. Pardon my patriotism, but I am proud to celebrate and acknowledge the fact that — well over 200 years later — I am a benefactor of their passion, determination and willingness to die for the cause of liberty. Singing the national anthem at a sporting event is a privilege, not some meaningless act “promoting nothing”.
Beginning on January 7, 2010 I will be hosting an internet television program called The Liberty Belle Hour with Daria on wafs.tv every Thursday night at 7 p.m:
Pursuing happiness with passion and patriotism
Join conservative writer, blogger, activist and author of the book Water Signs: A Story of Love and Renewal, Daria DiGiovanni for a high-energy hour of passionate debate, insightful analysis and fascinating conversation on everything from pop culture to politics. Every Thursday night at 7 p.m., Daria will apply her unique blend of humor, intelligence and eloquence to the relevant topics of the day, as well as feature exciting and interesting guests from a variety of backgrounds including small business owners, singers, health professionals and authors. Freedom rings every Thursday night at 7 p.m. on wafs.tv with The Liberty Belle Hour.
Special thanks to my friend and WAFS founder, John Sottilare, for extending the opportunity. My show will debut just ahead of host Paul Harvey's excellent broadcast, Let's Get Loud, on which I've been a frequent guest along with my Conservative Republican Forum co-host, Steve Rosenblum.
My first guest on The Liberty Belle Hour will be multi-talented singer, songwriter, actress and patriot, Ava Aston, who will share her experiences of being a passionate conservative in an industry dominated by lefties. A recent guest on CRF, Ava's debut CD Gone is available at her website, as is her latest single, the patriotic anthem, We The People.
This must be driving the libs and the Ron Paulnuts nuts!
Yes, this irrelevant, folksy, baby-making hick sure knows how to capture the attention of everyday Americans, a quality I'm sure her publisher greatly appreciates:
Publisher HarperCollins said Friday that Sarah Palin's memoir sold 300,000 copies its first day, among the best openings ever for a nonfiction book. In 2004, Bill Clinton's "My Life" debuted with sales of 400,000 copies. The year before, Hillary Rodham Clinton's "Living History" started at 200,000.
"Going Rogue" was released this week and its print run already has been increased from 1.5 million copies to 2.5 million, HarperCollins announced Friday. Palin, the former Alaska governor and GOP vice presidential candidate, is in the midst of a nationwide promotional tour.
For the most up-to-date coverage on the Going Rogue tour and all things Sarah Palin, visit the excellent Conservatives4Palin.
With the launch of Sarah Palin's book tour, a brand-new strain of the incurable disorder we came to know as Palin Derangement Syndrome during the 2008 campaign has emerged. And unlike the swine flu, this particular affliction appears to be a fatal (at least in terms of rational, cognitive abilities), permanent condition from which the patient has no desire to recover. And I'm not just talking about the lamestream media elites and other assorted liberals -- from whom we've come to expect the most vicious, reprehensible character assassination -- but also from libertarians and Ron Paul nuts.
Several months ago, I wrote this piece after encountering a multitude of foaming-at-the-mouth libertarians while participating in the weekly Tea Party protests in Fort Lauderdale. (Side note: I am proud to say this is the longest running Tea Party in the country, in spite of a local conservative talk radio host's regular attacks on the dedicated, patriotic effort back in March. Kudos to all of my intrepid South Florida freedom-lovers!)
As most readers know, I've built up an impressive list of friends on Facebook, most of whom share my belief in individual liberty, limited government, strong national defense and the sanctity of life. In many cases, I've accepted individuals as friends who consider themselves libertarians, because we overlapped on enough of the issues to find some common ground and engage in reasoned debate on those areas in which we disagreed. Or so I thought.
I don't know if Ron Paul is proud of his following, and I certainly can't hold him fully responsible for the actions of his supporters. However, in my Facebook experience these so-called libertarians have demonstrated that they are quite capable of rivaling any liberal when it comes to the most vitriolic, offensive and fraudulent attacks on any politician or private citizen who rightly believes that Global Jihad is a dangerous reality that threatens western civilization and demands the use of military force when appropriate.
But just like any true-believing liberal, these Ron Paulnuts bury their heads in the sand (you know, the very same heads every Allah-loving Jihadist would ecstatically chop off if given the opportunity), and cling to the erroneous belief that if we just mind our own business, somehow the problem, assuming it exists at all, will simply disappear.
So rather than place the blame for 9/11 where it squarely belongs -- on the 19 radical Muslim hijackers and their ideology of death to infidels -- they attack the very people who helped keep up safe in the pre-Obama age. From "Darth" Cheney to "Bushitler" libertarians have shown they are incapable of understanding the existential battle facing us in the modern world. Yes, radical Islam has been attempting to take over the world for many centuries; but the sophisticated technology of the 21st century has made their goal that much more achievable. To the extent that libertarians refuse to accept the need for legislation like FISA and the Patriot Act, they demonstrate the same juvenile willfulness as their liberal counterparts.
But back to Sarah Palin.
With the kick-off of her Going Rogue tour, libertarians on Facebook have gone into convulsions, branding her and anyone who supports her a "moron", "a woman I wouldn't trust to run a 1st grade picnic, let alone a country", and a "bimbo". And those are the mild insults. There have also been incredibly misogynistic and offensive remarks involving the female anatomy and Palin's youngest child, Trig, that have rivaled anything I wrote about in my piece, Photoshopping Trig: The Left's Latest Descent into Depravity.
The irony of course, is that Palin actually governed as a libertarian, and passed along a fiscally solvent state to her successor Sean Parnell and her fellow Alaskans when she resigned back in July. In order to become governor in the first place, she boldly took on RINO corruption and the good old boy network within her own party and won, without the help of a politically connected spouse or family -- a feat for which I have tremendous respect. Then there's the matter of the pipeline deal, an accomplishment conventional wisdom dictated would never come to pass. And yet, principled, determined Palin rolled up her sleeves and made it happen. The lamestream media, to no surprise, yawned. And libertarians on Facebook, for all their derision of the Republican establishment, refused to credit this woman for being a true "maverick".
Why exactly is that?
Sarah Palin, in Reagan-like manner, is also unafraid to call out evil, and thus acknowledges Global Jihad as a threat to our existence. To that end, she supports a robust national defense, expresses a fervent desire to win in Iraq and Afghanistan, and upholds Israel's right to exist. These are all fatal flaws, not just to liberals, but to civil rights absolutists everywhere who call themselves libertarians.
And just like liberals, instead of dealing with the issues, they attempt to marginalize her by engaging in smear tactics and repugnant insults that betray a regrettable lack of moral character and integrity. Lately it has become an epidemic with libertarians on Facebook: As more and more Americans get to know and like Palin via her media interviews with people like Oprah, Rush, Hannity and O'Reilly, as well as through her personal appearances at book stores throughout the country, their attacks increase in intensity and frequency. Along with their liberal brethren, libertarians' fear and loathing of the hockey mom from Alaska knows no bounds.
So while I respect their right to be stupid in terms of understanding the world we live in, I cannot abide having any association (even an electronic one via social media) with those who possess such flawed character traits. And no, I am not infringing on their First Amendment rights (as some have accused me of) when I delete and block them. As I wrote on a status update a few weeks ago regarding 9/11 truthers (many of whom are libertarians), they are entitled to their misguided opinions, but not my friendship. Therefore, when I delete and block them, I am simply exercising my right as an American not to have to put up with their nonsense. It's the same philosophy that enables me to boycott liberal Hollywood and their anti-American films.
My advice to libertarians and liberals: like it or not, Sarah Palin is here to stay. Perhaps a visit to the psychiatrist is in order before Obamacare denies your right to the meds you so desperately need.
No matter how much her elite critics on the left and the right try to dismiss, demean and marginalize her, Sarah Palin just keeps gaining momentum. Those of us who reside outside of the D.C. Beltway, Manhattan, Los Angeles and other urban stomping grounds of those who consider themselves the everyday American's intellectual and moral superiors just can't get enough of the woman who accurately reflects our values and cherishes American Exceptionalism.
Via Hot Air, 1500 braved freezing temperatures outside of a Barnes and Noble in Grand Rapids. And in an even more telling display of Palin's magnetism, she afforded Oprah Winfrey her biggest audience in two years. Wow, not even "The One" could give the talk-show diva such a gift.
Palin will appear on the Sean Hannity show tonight, and The O'Reilly Factor this Thursday, Friday and Monday. It will be interesting to see the ratings of these already highly successful Fox programs after her interviews.
One thing's for sure: Sarah Palin is a force to be reckoned with. And our country will be all the better for it, particularly with the 2010 election looming large. Will she throw her support behind conservative, grass-roots upstart Marco Rubio in Florida? As a Rubio supporter myself, I sure hope that's the case. Sources say Palin will visit The Lone Star State early next year to stump for Rick Perry's campaign as he competes against moderate Republican Kay Bailey Hutchinson in the March 2 gubernatorial primary.
May the conservative resurgence, led by Sarah Palin, usher in a new era of responsible, limited government, lower taxes, strong national security and individual liberty.
In sharp contrast to Oprah Winfrey (whose show admittedly focuses on a "chick flick" type of questioning), Rush Limbaugh purposely stuck to important policy issues during a live interview with Sarah Palin, who called in to his show from her hotel room in New York. Having praised Palin's book as "one of the most substantive policy books I've read," he deliberately avoided the "soap opera stuff" in favor of delving into pressing issues such as the economy, energy, national security and illegal immigration.
And to the surprise of none who blog here, the former Alaska governor displayed her impressive grasp of common-sense, free-market principles; her understanding of Ronald Reagan's stellar example of leadership; and her comprehension of both the Republican and Democrat establishment as they relate to the Tea Party movement, independent voters and the viability of a third party. Anyone who's previously accused Palin of pushing for a third party will find their theory thoroughly debunked in this interview. To quote her directly, "I don't think the third party movement will be what's necessary to usher in common-sense, conservative ideals."
Clearly Sarah Palin is above-all, about principles. Let's hope she can affect the same reform on a national level as she did with the Republican Party in Alaska. Are you listening, Michael Steele?
Contrary to popular opinion, not all women are enamored with Oprah Winfrey. In the 20+ years she's been hosting her show, I might've accidentally (via channel surfing and/or walking in on someone else who was engrossed in her latest episode) viewed a snippet here or there, but never once sat through an entire hour of mind-numbing chatter and touchy-feely moral relativism.
That all changed yesterday when a fresh breeze blew in from Alaska.
I admit, I was somewhat perplexed and even a bit angry when I first heard the news that Sarah Palin would visit Oprah's couch as part of her Going Rogue book tour. What exactly did she hope to accomplish by making nice with an avowed Obama-phile who refused the first female Republican VP nominee that opportunity during the 2008 campaign? And given the fact that her book was already setting records, Palin sure didn't need Oprah's endorsement to achieve best-selling author status.
However, the more I thought about it, the more I realized the former Governor of Alaska had no choice but to sit down with the talk-show queen. After all, the only impression most of Oprah's female audience had of Palin was as a reality-show, trailer-trash freak -- a fraudulent image pervasively and relentlessly perpetuated by an increasingly hostile (and fearful) media.
Seriously, why would lefty lamestreams want American women to know that an unapologetic conservative Christian female rose to political power purely on her own ambition and hard work -- with the undying support of a loving, faithful husband and five devoted children? Conservative women aren't supposed to be powerful, self-assured, intelligent and -- dare I add -- beautiful; they're supposed to be miserable, barefoot and pregnant, while simultaneously plodding through life per the dictates of that repressive religion, Christianity, as the faithful spouse of a neanderthal who neither supports her ambitions, nor helps out with the child-rearing.
The Left certainly didn't want Oprah's audience to know that you can choose life, no matter how imperfect and still find incredible joy and satisfaction in it. I am referring of course, to the governor's decision to give birth to her Down syndrome baby Trig, but also to her daughter Bristol, who chose life for her son Tripp, under less-than-ideal circumstances.
So the more I digested it, the more sense Palin's decision made. And yesterday, when I sat down to watch a full episode of Oprah for the first time in my life, I was once again reminded of why I admire Sarah Palin as a woman, American, conservative, politician, wife, mother and Christian.
Though I found Oprah to be a bit badgering at times in her questioning (e.g. "Is Levi Johnston invited for Thanksgiving dinner?"), with an aura of aloof politeness in her mannerisms, Palin handled the interview with her usual grace, charm, honesty and forthrightness. I was more than a little miffed at the end of the first segment when Oprah basically forced her to say something good about Obama (regarding his exhortation to the media to keep the candidates' kids off-limits, knowing full-well his media lackeys would never touch his kids -- except to comment on how wonderful they were. If only Palin's kids had been afforded the same treatment).
Some of my favorite moments?
When Palin noted, "It wasn't the center of my universe," in response to the question about being "snubbed" by Oprah last year; her reference to "The Perky One" (an obvious dig at obnoxious Katie Couric); the Halloween day video featuring Todd, Sarah, Trig and Piper; and her touching retelling of the day she broke the news to her husband about their forthcoming special-needs child.
I do wish Oprah had gotten around to asking some political and policy questions along the lines of "What was it like to take on the good old boys in the Republican establishment in Alaska and win?" "Why are you in favor of drilling in ANWAR?" "What was your proudest accomplishment as governor?" All missed opportunities that no doubt will be addressed when she appears on Rush, Hannity, O'Reilly and other outlets.
Overall, an impressive performance, one which I believe resonated with the audience and set the tone for a highly successful reintroduction to the American electorate.
One of the most shocking events in the aftermath of the Fort Hood massacre were the outrageous and chilling words of General Casey. His comment that it would be an even bigger tragedy if diversity itself became a victim, is an outrage and an insult to the fourteen who lost their lives in this preventable massacre, and the grieving families they left behind. Yes, the number of dead is fourteen and not thirteen as the lame stream media reports, because one of the soldiers was pregnant and her baby's life was snuffed out by this terrorist before it had a chance to begin.
What makes the General's comments so egregious is that they are reflective of how political correctness is not only paralyzing us as a society, but is now putting us in grave danger. Or rather has already put in grave danger, since the Ft. Hood dead are to be buried this week.
There was ample evidence as well as a long history of the terrorist behavior of this lunatic, and the Army was clearly on notice of it. Yet nothing was done out of fear of offending a Muslim officer. Those who expressed concern were afraid to make any official reports to their superiors, for fear of becoming victims of political correctness themselves, and having their careers derailed. I guess the good General believes that it is better not to offend anyone, especially a Muslim, even if you have to sacrifice American lives in the process.
What is even more frightening is that the jihadists have infiltrated our military, and stooges like General Casey in their quest for diversity, don't seem to care. In addition, there are many jihadist sleeper cells throughout the country. When will we wake up? Do we even care anymore?
What is needed is a full scale investigation of the all branches of the military and every mosque and Islamic organization throughout the country. This investigation needs to be initiated from the White House, and needs to be massive and thorough in its scope. As a point of reference, I cite the Tailhook investigation of 1991 ordered by the Administration of President George H.W. Bush, a veteran of the Navy. Tail hook involved untoward behavior by men directed at women in the Navy. A large scale investigation was launched into allegations of what at best can be described as sexual misconduct. As a result, many naval careers became a casualty. While everyone agrees that this type of conduct cannot be tolerated, nobody died at Tailhook as they did at Ft. Hood.
Mr. President, please order the attorney general to initiate such an investigation forthwith. Members of Congress, I call on you to pressure the White House if it won't act promptly. While this investigation is pending, General Casey should be relieved of his duties with pay. If the investigation reveals that the Ft. Hood's murderer's intentions were well known to the General and ignored them, then he should be court - martialed.
Police Sgt. Kimberly Munley emerged from the horror of the Ft. Hood massacre as a real life heroine. What a woman of courage risking her life and sustaining serious injury, while taking down the jihadist murderer. All women, indeed all people, should be very proud of Sgt. Munley. However, where are her sister feminists in the aftermath of this heroic deed? Not a word from NOW. Where are you Oprah? Nancy Pelosi anyone? Is Hilary Clinton still dancing in a village in Africa? Once again these frauds that call themselves American feminists have been exposed. They are not patriotic Americans, nor do they give a damn about women. They care only about their socialist, pro-abortion agenda. Shame on them. They can't hold a candle to real American women like Sgt. Munley.
Make no mistake about it. The 2009 elections were a referendum on President Obama. Unfortunately, for the President the voters responded with a resounding no to his Marxist/socialist agenda. The drubbing in Virginia was impressieve enough for Republicans, but the defeat of Corzine in the bluest of blue states speaks volumes. It was a reminder to the President that we are indeed a Christian country with an established Judeo- Christian ethic and culture. The tide is turning but much work still needs to be done. We can still defeat Obamacare in the Senate and we must prepare as never before for the 2010 elections.
One of Ronald Reagan's defining moments was the speech at the Brandenburg Gate in June 1987, as JFK's "Ich bin ein Berliner" in June 1963 was such a moment for him. It's hard for our kids to grasp fully the moment, but the joy on display at the end of this video should help them to understand.
Make no mistake about it, the horrible and vicious attack at Ft. Hood was a Mulim terrorist attack. The fact that the killer is a religious Muslim who yelled "Allah Akbar" as he slaughtered innocent Americans is proof of same. This jihadist should be interrogated until he fully confesses, and then tried and exceuted as a traitor to his country. In addition, those accomplices who he indentifies should be hunted and killed wherever they are in the world. Those in the military who were on notice of his predilections and did nothing should be tried and court marshaled. This episode should be the final straw regarding political correctness, which will kill us all unless we collectively wise up.
Rush Limbaugh's recent interview with the "Today Show" was a classic, and yet another example of how my favorite Conservative continues to bedevil the Dinosaur media. He is like a parent and liberals are like the 13 year old who try to fool their parents and never get away with it. Rush is always one step ahead and liberals just can never catch up.
If the Republicans hope to reclaim Congress in 2010, the recipe in my humble opinion, is pretty simple. It calls for a new, simpler version of the Contract with America of 1994, and consists of two simple points.
1. A Republican majority in Congress will support no legislation nor pass any law which Congress itself doesn't have to live under. It's pretty simple. If a law is good enough for We the People, it should be good enough for Congress. This would ensure the death of Obamacare and the salvation of Social Security. Right now it's easy to support Obamacare if you're in Congress when it won't apply to you and your family, who will still get "gold standard", traditional American medical care.
2. Term limits. If 8 years is enough for Presidents, then 12 years ought to be good enough for Congress. That's 2 terms for Senators and 6 terms for Congressmen. Politics is about publice service, not fat public pensions.
I hope you're listening Mr. Steele. The millions who have taken to the streets in the Tea Party movement, will not simply pull the Republican lever because they're angry at the President and his party. If Republicans do no better than Obama-lite, they will find themselves in the political wilderness for generations.
The woman reviled and scorned as an imbecile by our friends on the Left, has struck once again. Her forthcoming book Going Rogue: An American Life is already numero uno on both Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, and it won't even be released until November 17. Not bad for an illiterate rube from Steward's Icebox. Of course, this is the same hick who in one short Facebook post redefined the health care debate, thus putting the President and his "death panels" squarely on the defensive. I hope Chairman Steele and the gang at the RNC are taking notes. Obviously, Senator McCain (whom I will forever salute as a war hero) is not. Nor is Senator "Gang of 14" Graham. Both of them are proving their eagerness to lose even more elections with their "centrist" nonsense. How'd that work out for you in 2008, Senator McCain?
Oh and by the way RNC, have you forgotten the Left's attacks on the "Amiable Dunce" in the 1970s -- the former actor, cowboy and California Governor whom President Carter and his team ardently hoped would be the Republican nominee in 1980? Whatever happened to that Old Fella? I guess he's not as memorable as some of the "notables" the RNC have force-fed to the American people, e.g. Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush (1992 version), Bob Dole, and John McCain. Do I detect a pattern here? Moderate = Electoral Defeat. In case you haven't noticed RNC, there is a huge movement sweeping the country. Folks who've never been politically active or participated in protests have been taking to the streets demanding a return to Constitutional principles -- you know, limited government, low taxes, strong national defense and individual liberty. Funny, these are some of the things Sarah Palin consistently champions in her writings, speeches and interviews. Hmmm.
I suggest Michael Steele et al take a clue from the Tea Parties. The candidate who is unapologetic about American exceptionalism and the vision of this country put forth by our Founding Fathers is the candidate who will take the White House, not to mention save the USA from impending disaster. And if that's not enough for you, here's a litmus test: simply look at the Republican candidate that the Left despises and mocks the most, and you've found your or man -- or woman. The bottom line is the Left deeply fears Sarah Palin and they know they need to destroy her now.
The fact is that Governor Palin has the greatest political instincts since President Reagan. The Left and the dinosaur media viciously attacked Sarah and her family and it backfired. Next they set out to destroy her governorship by filing multiple, bogus ethics complaints which had nothing to do with ethics, and everything to do with bankrupting the Palin family. When she resigned this past summer, they incorrectly assumed they'd achieved a "gotcha" moment, as did some pseudo-elitist, Beltway conservative commentators (who didn't much like Palin from the get-go).
Wrong again folks! Not only did she pass the torch on to her highly capable poltical twin, former Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell (along with a fiscally solvent state treasury), her resignation proved to be her most brilliant move to date, with the possible exception of completing her book several months ahead of time.
Her recent speech in Hong Kong was a grand slam that even the near-bankrupt New York Times called "compelling". How refreshing to have an honest, middle class American just like us with a real chance at the Presidency. George Washington would be proud; this is exactly the way the American system developed by our Founders was designed to work. They'd had their fill of despots and monarchs, going to great lengths to ensure a government "by the people, for the people and of the people". Enough of the elite ruling class of both parties telling us what to do!
Keep it up Sarah. My wife and I are anxiously awaiting your book in the mail.
Just read about this exciting news over at Conservatives4Palin. Seems the woman the lamestream media vilified as someone who doesn't read actually completed her book months ahead of schedule. Can't wait to read her take-down of the treacherous McCainiacs, and her plan to rescue America from the evil clutches of the radicals. Looks like I've found the perfect Christmas gift for all of the conservatives in my life!
I've been light on the political blogging since attending the 9/12 March on Washington, partly because I've been spending a great deal of time promoting Water Signs. This past Wednesday evening, I had the pleasure of speaking to the Hawthorne Writers Group in New Jersey, thanks to my good friends Don Smith and Sabrina Steyling. To Don and Sabrina, and all who attended, I hope you enjoyed the evening as much as I did! Looking forward to seeing you all again when the sequel is completed, hopefully in the spring of 2010. Here are a few videos of my presentation, all of which can be found at my You Tube channel.
Last night we celebrated the 50th birthday of the most amazing person I know -- our brother Ralph. For a few hours at least, I forgot all about politics as I joined with family and friends to honor someone who will always be our hero. In addition to the WWF, Ralph absolutely loves movies, thus the Hollywood-themed party included a red carpet; cut-outs and photos of Clint Eastwood (one of Ralph's favorite actors) and other famous stars; and even an Oscar presentation to the guest of honor.
I tried to capture the evening's magic in these videos. Enjoy!
I have been scratching my head trying to remember the last time a political leader so angered the majority of the American people, as to cause widespread disgust and spontaneous public demonstrations of patriotism.
While it's true that George W. Bush was detested and vilified by the far Left, his detractors constituted a small fringe minority of the body politic. Bill Clinton was certainly disliked by conservatives like myself, but he never inspired mass demonstrations like we're seeing today. Similarly, Ronald Reagan, like Bush 43 was hated by the far left, but again we are talking about a very small, albeit vocal minority.
I then thought back to Richard Nixon, he of enemies list fame. While the Left despised him and he was in the White House at a time of large protests and mass demonstrations, the thrust of those public displays was opposition to the Viet Nam war. While many who attended were clearly anti- Nixon, the former President was not the sole driving force behind those marches. They started in the Johnson administration and would have continued had Humphrey been elected in 1968.
Still stumped, I looked further back in history. While Southerners, who comprised half of the country clearly hated Lincoln, we are talking about a time in history when the country was fighting a bloody civil war. Their anger was directed at all things Northern not just Lincoln, and the feeling was mutual. A review of the first fifteen Presidents also came up empty.
Who then could compare to the Chosen One? It hit me while watching a tea party protest on the news one night. Tea party was a term I had not heard used in modern times, until the President took office in January. Before its modern revival the last time the term "tea party" was in vogue was in the 1700s when American colonists threw a big party in Boston harbor. Who was in charge then? Who was the leader who provoked such outrage? None other that King George III, that's who. He's the leader who Obama most resembles. Remember him? Taxation without representation, imposition of government control over every aspect of American life, and loser of an important war. Sounds just like a guy who would be a good czar in the current Administration.
The President ought to study King George III, for he who does not learn from history is doomed to repeat it. Unless Mr. Obama soon realizes that he is a president and not a king, he will meet the same fate as the erstwhile British monarch. He will learn that it is unwise to attempt to take away the freedom of the American people. Should he continue to try to do so, the President like King George III will inevitably find himself on the losing side of the next American Revolution.
It's difficult to describe the overwhelming sense of pride, solidarity and excitement I experienced as I joined with approximately 2 million like-minded patriots from every state in country yesterday at the 9/12 March on Washington. At the risk of conjuring up an unpleasant image, I've never been prouder of my fellow Americans, many of whom traveled long distances and sacrificed hard-earned time and money to make their voices heard.
Since I am still in Pennsylvania visiting family, I rode down on a chartered bus with the West Chester Tea Party folks, a dedicated, passionate and friendly group. Mirroring what I witnessed in DC, they represented a broad cross-section of citizens, from 11 year-old Quentin Cody (who's quite famous in this area for his thoughtful, intelligent and articulate speeches delivered at Town Halls and other rallies) to stay-at-home moms and military veterans. Kudos to trip organizer Paula Stiles, one of the most efficient planners I've ever met. Not only did she expertly manage the inevitable cancellations, waiting lists and endless questions that accompany such an undertaking, she made the entire drive memorable and fun with raffles, patriotic music and even homemade brownies. And best of all, she'd even printed out maps of DC, to make it easy for us to get around, knowing we were all free to go our separate ways before meeting up again for the ride home.
I sat next to a wonderful woman named Beth, who appears at the beginning of my video below. From the beginning of our journey, which began at 6:30 a.m. at the West Goshen shopping center (site of our chartered bus pick-up), it was obvious that September 12, 2009 was going to be a historic day, marking a turning-point in our country. The excitement on the nearly three-hour drive down was palpable as we cruised along I-95. There were two buses in our caravan, but as we got closer to DC, we noticed several others. By the time we pulled into Union Station, any doubts or fears about the event's success were eliminated as one-by-one, every designated parking space welcomed another motorcoach.
As I proceeded through the station with map in hand, I got a call from my friend Sean Williams, BTR host of The War Room, who'd driven up from Orlando, FL. Before I could even inquire as to the crowd size, I heard him cry out exuberantly, "Holy Sh%^&*"! Hearing the roar of the crowd in the background, I couldn't wait to get to the Freedom Plaza and march back up to the Capitol, surrounded by like-minded patriots.
I met up with Sean in front of the building bearing Ronald Reagan's name, and we joined the endless parade. Amid a sea of flags and elaborate, homemade signs, we chanted "USA"!; "Here we come"; and The Pledge of Allegiance (with special emphasis on the phrase "Under God".) We sang God Bless America and The Star Spangled Banner, while above us the skies were partly sunny, with a nice breeze. But even if it had rained, as it appeared to be threatening to do at least a few times during the afternoon, the spirit of this enthusiastic, determined crowd would not have been broken. I can't remember a time when I've felt more connected to my fellow Americans; it's a feeling I will treasure always.
Sean and I then found Premo Mondone, BTR host of Red State Town Hall and his friend David, who'd arrived on a bus from Chattanooga, TN with their local Fair Tax organization. From there, we headed to the Capitol lawn to hear the speeches (at least as best we could from our vantage point) and interact with other 9/12 marchers. Unfortunately, I never did connect with the many others I'd planned to, including my good friends Ellen Snyder, Shona Daress and the wonderful Facebook "YaYa" group, but given the sheer magnitude of the crowd, I'd been lucky to locate anyone I knew.
And as always, these Tea Party Patriots were well-informed, smart, resolved and resolute. They unequivocally reject socialism, Czars, arrogant Congress Critters in both parties, our narcissistic President and his Marxist plans for the USA, and the rampant corruption that has overtaken our government. They want to restore the Constitution and get this country back to the vision of its Founders. Countless signs spelled out the solutions, including tort reform, interstate competition for insurance companies and medical savings accounts.
We met a nice family of five from Southern California (see them in the video), who informed us that contrary to popular belief, most Californians are NOT liberals. The reason they get saddled with liberal politicians like Boxer and Feinstein is because The Golden State allows illegals to vote, going so far as to provide them with ballots in Spanish. Is there any doubt why Obama yearns for the rest of the country to follow in California's heavily taxed, welfare-state footsteps?
A few other fun anecdotes: At one point, a woman walked by and happily informed me that she'd visited the CNN bus (which was parked near the area we'd settled in) and told them to "stop lying about us" and to "get the story straight today" in terms of the crowd numbers and description. Later when we heard ABC (ABC!) had reported 1.7 million, I wondered if the reporter had choked on the words. At one point, Sean got a misinformed Tweet announcing the death of Fidel Castro (which we later discovered to be false), prompting cautious rejoicing from everyone around us. How fitting it would have been on this day, but alas the Dictator lives for a least a little while longer!
No SEIU or any other thugs tried to disrupt the event as far as I could tell. There may have been some there, but we did not encounter any. Given the enormity of the turnout, there's no way they would've succeeded in causing trouble anyway.
Finally, I would also like to thank everyone responsible for planning and executing yesterday's protest, which was one of the most organized events I've ever attended. There were numerous volunteers in yellow tee-shirts offering help and directions, placed at strategic points all along the way. The protesters themselves, while vocal and enthusiastic, were also courteous and polite.
Overall, it was a day that will live on in history, marking a turning-point in the restoration of this country to the people from the grubby hands of special interest groups, self-serving politicians, secular progressive millionaires and billionaires (Gore, Soros etc) and their petulant, arrogant embodiment of "Hope and Change", Barack Hussein Obama. The sleeping giant has awakened with a roar, and "The Silent Majority" is silent no more!
Elizabeth of Daily Inklings wrote this remembrance of Timothy Daly and posted it on 9/11/08:
Tim Ward was born on Valentine’s Day, 1963, the son of Susie Ward Baker of Rancho Bernardo and the apple of his mother’s eye. He lived in nearby Scripps Ranch with his companion, Linda Brewton. He was an IT project manager for the Rubio’s Baja Grill chain of restaurants. He was an accomplished chef who would pack a chocolate confection in a picnic basket, an animal lover with a West Highland terrier named Sherman, and a devoted San Diego State Aztec fan who would travel to their games.
He was a passenger on Flight 195 when it was hijacked by terrorists and flown into the second tower of the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001.
I found a subsequent article, written in November 2008, on his mother's quest for his remains; an excerpt:
For seven years, 3,000 miles stood between Susanne Ward-Baker and her son Timothy’s remains.
Timothy Ray Ward, 38, was flying from Boston to Los Angeles on the morning of 9/11, on United Airlines Flight 175. After the plane slammed into the World Trade Center, all that was found of Ward were three shards of bone.
For seven years, those three pieces of bone sat in a Ziploc bag in a freezer at the New York City Medical Examiner’s office, waiting to be claimed. For seven years, Ward-Baker made phone calls to New York from her house in San Diego, searching a way to bring her son home.
“I’m just a mother who wants my son’s little teeny pieces of bone with me,” Ward-Baker told Downtown Express several weeks ago, beginning to cry during a telephone interview.
Ward-Baker, 67, finally got her wish on Nov. 14, when a seven-year impasse ended and her son’s remains arrived.
By all accounts, Robert Penninger was an exceptional man with a steadfast love of family, country, and life. An electrical engineer for BAE Systems, the Poway, California resident was 63 years-old when his plane -- American Flight 77 -- was crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.
His wife, Janet Penninger, later described her husband to the Washington Post:
"Bob Penninger loved life, always living it to the fullest. He always tried to find humor in any situation. Bob also loved cars. In high school, he was always tinkering with the cars he and his friends owned, fine-tuning them to get more speed. So it seemed only natural that he buy a 1999 electric green Cobra Mustang with thoughts of making it into a show car. He added many Saleen extras including a speedster cover, spoiler and ground effects. He had a supercharger installed, as well as having the car lowered, putting on wider tires and a roll bar. He enjoyed every moment driving and showing this car and won a trophy at every car show he entered."
Among the entries for Penninger on the Legacy.com Guest Book, are these beautiful tributes:
To the family of Robert Penninger: Robert gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. My deepest sympathy to you. We must never forget! Peggy Childers "Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away" www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Peggy Childers, Carson City, Nevada
***
Bob was a friend and co-worker for many years, working on military projects that had terrific humanitarian applications. He was very excited about that because it would save so many from injury or death. Bob was a fine man who loved his family dearly. I miss his humor and kindness.
Dave Hunsaker,
Ramona, California
***
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Kristine,Tecumseh, Michigan
May Robert Penninger, and all victims of 9/11 rest in peace in God's presence. And may those of us left behind always remember their heroism, and live a life worthy of their sacrifice. God bless America and her fallen heroes.
Nathaniel Lawson was living the American Dream. Having grown up in Georgia in a family of 19 children, 61 year-old Lawson was a waiter and cook for Forte Food Service, and had been transferred to the World Trade Center, just three months prior to 9/11.
In The New York Times Portraits of Grief, Lawson's niece Brenda Weaver shares the story of Lawson's excitement over his new cable service, enabling him to watch his beloved New York Knicks and other teams, as well as gospel programs. He'd called her mother -- his sister -- Betty Moore, the day before the attack on the World Trade Center, to relate the news.
"He was a very spiritual man," Ms. Weaver said. "He always kept a smile. And he was helpful. Anytime you would call to talk to him about a problem, he was always willing to give good advice and willing to pray with you about anything that was bothering you."
The New York Times profile goes on to state:
Mr. Lawson lived alone in a tiny apartment in Flatbush, Brooklyn. His grown daughter, Pamela, lives in Germany. He was close to his sister, Betty. "For my mother, it's a lot like losing another half of her," Ms. Weaver said.
May Nathaniel Lawson enjoy the rewards of eternity, along with all of the victims of 9/11.
During my month-long visit to Pennsylvania, I've joined my parents at several Town Halls and Tea Parties, including Dom Giordano's healthcare panel at The Philadelphia Inquirer, where I witnessed Joe Sestak give John Edwards a run for his money for the title of sleaziest politician in America. I documented the entire experience on Facebook, along with photos.
And this past Saturday, I had the pleasure of meeting more Keystone State patriots in front of the courthouse in West Chester, site of their weekly gathering. Among the crowd of 30+, I spoke with many dedicated activists from all walks of life, ranging from retired CEOs to small business owners to veterans. People like event organizer Mark Driver, a grass-roots activist since 1990. Among other things, Mark is a member of American Sheepdogs, Pennsylvania Conservative Council, six different Tea Party groups, and an organization named ACTION (American Christian Traditions In Our Nation).
When I asked about his biggest concern with Obamacare, Driver stated emphatically, "The very last page, where it is written, 'if you do not accept government healthcare plans, states' rights will be limited.' That is the most disturbing line in the entire 1,000-page bill for me, as it is another power-grab by an ever-expanding centralized government."
Fellow protester/organizer Craig Cody agreed. Though politically aware for the last 12 years, he'd never gotten active -- that is until he realized the necessity of getting involved. "Our Founding Fathers were smart," Cody told me, "They were great students of history, and that's what we have to get back to. I am thankful for the millions of regular citizens who are fighting for our freedom."
On such citizen is Cody's remarkable son, Quentin, just eleven years-old, and one of the Tea Party movement's most passionate orators. Quentin first spoke at the West Chester Tea Party on April 4, 2009, and is scheduled to address an Americans for Prosperity event this coming week. Along with his sister Shannon, Quentin offers hope that all is definitely not lost when it comes to future generations.
Finally, there was US Navy vet and event organizer Rich Davis, who gathered us together on the courthouse steps before we adjourned, to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, sing God Bless America and pray the Our Father. Rich also announced two other events taking place that day in nearby Exton and King of Prussia. Undaunted by the small group of counter-protesters across the street, bearing signs with drawings of aliens and slogans of "They're back" on them, he told me that they'd long ago come to an arrangement to stand on opposite corners to avoid any potential conflicts.
Once again, I was incredibly impressed by the vast knowledge, intelligence and passion expressed by my fellow patriotic Americans who -- despite every attempt by the mainstream media and the White House to marginalize and intimidate them -- refuse to back down. Can't wait to ride the bus to DC with the Chester County group!
Here's the story of Rich Davis and the Chester County Victory Movement:
It's even uglier than you could have imagined. Many thanks to The Czar of Muscovy for trudging through all 1,017 pages of this abomination to bring all the points of interest to light. From his Big Finish:
The last 45 of my 66 years I’ve spent in a commercial fishing town in Alaska. I understand Alaska politics but never understood national politics well until this last year. Here’s the breaking point: Neither side of the Palin controversy gets it…It’s not about persona, style, rhetoric, it’s about doing things. Even Palin supporters never mention the things that I’m about to mention here.
1- Democrats forget when Palin was the Darling of the Democrats, because as soon as Palin took the Governor’s office away from a fellow Republican and tough SOB, Frank Murkowski, she tore into the Republican’s “Corrupt Bastards Club” (CBC) and sent them packing. Many of them are now residing in State housing and wearing orange jump suits. The Democrats reacted by skipping around the yard, throwing confetti and singing “la la la la” (well, you know how they are). Name another governor in this country that has ever done anything similar. But while you’re thinking, I’ll continue.
2- Now with the CBC gone, there were fewer Alaskan politicians to protect the huge, giant oil companies here. So, she constructed and enacted a new system of splitting the oil profits called “ACES”. Exxon (the biggest corporation in the world) protested and Sarah told them “don’t let the door hit you in the stern on your way out.” They stayed, and Alaska residents went from being merely wealthy to being filthy rich. Of course the other huge international oil companies meekly fell in line. Again, give me the name of any other governor in the country that has done anything similar.
3- The other thing she did when she walked into the governor’s office is she got the list of State requests for federal funding for projects, known as “pork”. She went through the list, took 85% of them and placed them in the “when-hell-freezes-over” stack. She let locals know that if we need something built, we’ll pay for it ourselves. Maybe she figured she could use the money she got from selling the previous governor’s jet because it was extravagant. Maybe she could use the money she saved by dismissing the governor’s cook (remarking that she could cook for her own family), giving back the State vehicle issued to her, maintaining that she already had a car, and dismissing her State provided security force (never mentioning—I imagine—that she’s packing heat herself). I’m still waiting to hear the names of those other governors.
4- Now, even with her much-ridiculed “gosh and golly” mannerism, she also managed to put together a totally new approach to getting a natural gas pipeline built which will be the biggest private construction project in the history of North America. No one else could do it although they tried. If that doesn’t impress you, then you’re trying too hard to be unimpressed while watching her do things like this while baking up a batch of brownies with her other hand.
5- For 30 years, Exxon held a lease to do exploratory drilling at a place called Point Thompson. They made excuses the entire time why they couldn’t start drilling. In truth they were holding it like an investment. No governor for 30 years could make them get started. This summer, she told them she was revoking their lease and kicking them out. They protested and threatened court action. She shrugged and reminded them that she knew the way to the court house. Alaska won again.
6- President Obama wants the nation to be on 25% renewable resources for electricity by 2025. Sarah went to the legislature and submitted her plan for Alaska to be at 50% renewables by 2025. We are already at 25%. I can give you more specifics about things done, as opposed to style and persona . Everybody wants to be cool, sound cool, look cool. But that’s just a cover-up. I’m still waiting to hear from liberals the names of other governors who can match what mine has done in two and a half years. I won’t be holding my breath.
By the way, she was content to to return to AK after the national election and go to work, but the haters wouldn’t let her. Now these adolescent screechers are obviously not scuba divers. And no one ever told them what happens when you continually jab and pester a barracuda. Without warning, it will spin around and tear your face off. Shoulda known better.
Maybe had she been astro-turfing, I mean, organizing communities, she would be held in higher regard. Nah, only if she spewed left-wing bromides.
The smart lady with the powerful keyboard is at it again, this time taking on the all-important issue of tort reform. Like the health providers she references, 'Cuda is intimately familiar with being a target for frivolous lawsuits -- an unfortunate reality in a world filled with opportunists:
As Governor of Alaska, I learned a little bit about being a target for frivolous suits and complaints (Please, do I really need to footnote that?). I went my whole life without needing a lawyer on speed-dial, but all that changes when you become a target for opportunists and people with no scruples. Our nation’s health care providers have been the targets of similar opportunists for years, and they too have found themselves subjected to false, frivolous, and baseless claims. To quote a former president, “I feel your pain.”
So what can we do? First, we cannot have health care reform without tort reform. The two are intertwined. For example, one supposed justification for socialized medicine is the high cost of health care. As Dr. Scott Gottlieb recently noted, “If Mr. Obama is serious about lowering costs, he'll need to reform the economic structures in medicine—especially programs like Medicare.” [1] Two examples of these “economic structures” are high malpractice insurance premiums foisted on physicians (and ultimately passed on to consumers as “high health care costs”) and the billions wasted on defensive medicine.Dr. Stuart Weinstein, with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, recently explained the problem:
"The medical liability crisis has had many unintended consequences, most notably a decrease in access to care in a growing number of states and an increase in healthcare costs.Access is affected as physicians move their practices to states with lower liability rates and change their practice patterns to reduce or eliminate high-risk services. When one considers that half of all neurosurgeons—as well as one third of all orthopedic surgeons, one third of all emergency physicians, and one third of all trauma surgeons—are sued each year, is it any wonder that 70 percent of emergency departments are at risk because they lack available on-call specialist coverage?” [2]
Dr. Weinstein makes good points, points completely ignored by President Obama. Dr. Weinstein details the costs that our out-of-control tort system are causing the health care industry and notes research that “found that liability reforms could reduce defensive medicine practices, leading to a 5 percent to 9 percent reduction in medical expenditures without any effect on mortality or medical complications.”
Dr. Weinstein writes:“If the Kessler and McClellan estimates were applied to total U.S. healthcare spending in 2005, the defensive medicine costs would total between $100 billion and $178 billion per year. Add to this the cost of defending malpractice cases, paying compensation, and covering additional administrative costs (a total of $29.4 billion). Thus, the average American family pays an additional $1,700 to $2,000 per year in healthcare costs simply to cover the costs of defensive medicine.Excessive litigation and waste in the nation’s current tort system imposes an estimated yearly tort tax of $9,827 for a family of four and increases healthcare spending in the United States by $124 billion.
How does this translate to individuals? The average obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) delivers 100 babies per year. If that OB-GYN must pay a medical liability premium of $200,000 each year (which is the rate in Florida), $2,000 of the delivery cost for each baby goes to pay the cost of the medical liability premium.” [3]You would think that any effort to reform our health care system would include tort reform, especially if the stated purpose for Obama’s plan to nationalize our health care industry is the current high costs.
So I have new questions for the president: Why no legal reform? Why continue to encourage defensive medicine that wastes billions of dollars and does nothing for the patients? Do you want healthcare reform to benefit trial attorneys or patients?Many states, including my own state of Alaska, have enacted caps on lawsuit awards against health care providers. Texas enacted caps and found that one county’s medical malpractice claims dropped 41 percent, and another study found a “55 percent decline” after reform measures were passed. [4] That’s one step in health care reform. Limiting lawyer contingency fees, as is done under the Federal Tort Claims Act, is another step.
The State of Alaska pioneered the “loser pays” rule in the United States, which deters frivolous civil law suits by making the loser partially pay the winner’s legal bills. Preventing quack doctors from giving “expert” testimony in court against real doctors is another reform.Texas Gov. Rick Perry noted that, after his state enacted tort reform measures, the number of doctors applying to practice medicine in Texas “skyrocketed by 57 percent” and that the tort reforms “brought critical specialties to underserved areas.” These are real reforms that actually improve access to health care. [5]Dr. Weinstein’s research shows that around $200 billion per year could be saved with legal reform. That’s real savings. That’s money that could be used to build roads, schools, or hospitals.If you want to save health care, let’s listen to our doctors too. There should be no health care reform without legal reform. There can be no true health care reform without legal reform.- Sarah Palin
Private citizen Palin continues to fire expertly timed salvos at Obamacare via her Facebook page, proving once again her ability to put forth coherent, common-sense arguments against socialized medicine, as well as practical, free-market solutions for bringing down the cost of health insurance. More than any other leader in the Republican Party, this "quitter" speaks the language of everyday people, unrestrained by the hang-ups of the Beltway crowd.
Everyday folks understand the dire need to protect doctors, particularly specialists, from greedy trial lawyers and clients. They recognize that the costs of practicing defensive medicine have spiraled out of control, along with exorbitant malpractice premiums. At the Wexler protest yesterday, there were several signs asking, "Where's the tort reform?" and at one point, when a megaphone was passed around, my impassioned command to Mr. Obama to "stop demonizing doctors like my father!" was met with thunderous applause.
There can be no healthcare reform without tort reform. Sarah Palin gets that. And she's not afraid to whip her keyboard and say so.
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