Sarah Palin Named Conservative of the Year

EXCLUSIVE Interview With Sarah Palin
by Human Events
12/22/2008

“Thank you, sir. It is an honor to be named your ‘‘Conservative of the Year.’”That’s how Sarah Palin began her third interview this year with HUMAN EVENTS Political Editor John Gizzi. She spoke to Gizzi last April as the first of 16 Republicans he interviewed for HE’s “Veepstakes” election-year feature, and then she sat down with him during the National Governors Association meeting in Philadelphia in July. The Alaska governor last week again spoke to Gizzi, this time about her historic candidacy as the Republican vice presidential nominee as well as about current issues and her future. Veteran Republican political consultant Holly Robichaud, who had arranged the first “Veepstakes” interview between Palin and Gizzi, set up their latest exchange December 12.

Speaking from her office in Juneau, Gov Palin set the scene: “It’s five below, not too cold to snow, which is nice, absolutely beautiful and white and crisp,” and then Gizzi began the interview with her:

GIZZI: Republican Sen. Saxby Chambliss singled you out for praise after you campaigned for him and he won re-election in the run-off in Georgia earlier this month. What did you do that was so helpful to Sen. Chambliss, who won by a relatively large margin?

PALIN: Georgia was a blast. People were fired up to re-elect him. It certainly wasn’t me. It was him. When he was on stage, people were cheering. I think the rest of the country, those who were concerned about checks and balances in Washington, D.C., were very excited about the opportunity for me to help out a little bit there. And we made sure we did have those checks and balances that came with his re-election. I was very thankful he was re-elected, and very thankful for my state of Alaska. Saxby is pro-development and wants to make sure that our nation becomes energy independent. Alaska can help. As opposed to the positions his opponent had been taking, he can help us progress toward that end. His opponent [Democrat Jim Martin], I believe, would have worked to lock up more of Alaska.

GIZZI: In campaigning for Sen. Chambliss, you brought back a lot of conservatives who had been critical of him for voting for the Wall Street bailout [of financial institutions]. Would you have favored the Wall Street bailout and voted as Sen. Chambliss did?

PALIN: I would have done what the GOP [senators] did yesterday and said ‘no’ to additional bailout efforts of one industry [the automobile industry, whose proposed federal bailout was stopped in the Senate December 11]. Picking winners and losers in Washington, D.C., is a dangerous thing to do when you’re talking about a system that supposed to be based on free enterprise. When you talk about rewarding for work ethic and good management decisions and then consequences are the results of the opposite of that, and those decisions lead to some mistakes that are made in some industries, taxpayer bailouts should not be looked to as the be-all, end-all solutions. But back then, weeks ago, when that initial bailout [of financial institutions] was proposed, remember, it was considered at the time a rescue and not necessarily a bailout. Without having as much information as everyone has now, I did support that initial effort that was going to come from Congress. Of course, we saw [Federal Reserve Board Chairman Ben] Bernanke and others appear to change the rules right away, it seemed like, after that initial rescue plan or bailout was given the green light, then everybody in the public, including me, started hearing that the rules were changing on where those dollars would go and what the criterion would be. Unfortunately, that leads to distrust of decisions our politicians make on our behalf and bureaucrats make on our behalf. Now the situation has changed, and I think the GOP did the right thing yesterday in saying, “Look, we still want more information before one industry -- in this case, the auto industry -- gets more taxpayer assistance until everybody knows what those dollars would be used for and how it will lead to success in this industry.”

GIZZI: So you stand with Sen. [Bob] Corker [Tenn.] and other Republicans who stopped the auto industry bailout in the Senate?

PALIN: I do. Once bitten, twice shy. We learned a lesson, at least being amenable -- if not enthused -- to the idea all those weeks ago to the first rescue plan. But then the rules changed quickly, and more information was revealed that perhaps Congress and the bureaucrats in the Treasury Department not having a good grasp on what the problem was and how taxpayer funds would solve any of the problems. That’s caused a lot of concern and caution on my part and the part of the Republican Party.

GIZZI: Indiana Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels has spoken out against the bailout of states that [California] Gov. [Arnold] Schwarzenegger and other governors have called for. As a governor yourself and an active member of the National Governors Association, where do you stand on the bailout of states?

PALIN: Every state, like every community in the United States, comes to Congress with its list of infrastructure needs. Alaska is going to join every other state with a governor’s list. In fact, I’ve looked at every other governor’s list of infrastructure needs that’s presented to Congress. It’s up to Congress, because Congress holds the purse strings, to decide how some of those projects are going to be funded. Alaska’s projects are going to be in the nation’s best interests. They will be infrastructure that will build gas lines and build that infrastructure up that will lead to energy production to allow us to become energy independent. We aren’t asking for things like “Bridges to Nowhere.” But, in speaking with Gov. Schwarzenegger about this, he has said it’s not his intention to ask for a bailout that is based on his state’s management decisions that have led to some problems in that state. In Alaska, we’re fortunate. We have a surplus. We have money put aside for the last few years, waiting for a ‘rainy day’ when the economy wasn’t as strong. We are in a good position, so we are not asking for, nor should we ask for, a bailout from the ‘feds.’ But we will, along with every other state, have our list of infrastructure projects and roads and very basic tools that will lead to energy production.

GIZZI: For my birthday this year, friends gave me the new biography of Andrew Jackson [American Lion, by Jon Meacham]. One of the passages that reminded me of you is when the author is explaining how vilified Jackson was and says, ‘He was the first President to come from the common people, not from an educated elite, and he never ceased to see himself as their champion.’ Is that something you can identify with and do you think the fact you had a similar background to Jackson’s was a reason for some of the criticism you received from some of the punditocracy and the media in general?

PALIN: Maybe initially it is a hindrance for someone starting out. But once the electorate knows what that candidate’s convictions are and positions are, I don’t think that matters. You just prefaced your question with the fact that I didn’t come from that ‘stock’. I got my education from the University of Idaho because that’s what I could afford. It was the least-expensive school that offered the programs I knew would benefit me in my future. My Dad was a school teacher and had four kids in college at about the same time. It didn’t occur to me to ask my parents to pay for my college education. We all worked through school and paid for schools that we could afford. I still got a great education. No, I don’t come from the self-proclaimed ‘movers and shakers’ group and that’s fine with me. It’s caused me, or rather, allowed me, to work harder and pulled myself up by my bootstraps without anyone else helping me. I think it allows me to be in touch with the vast majority of Americans who are in the same position that I am. That is desiring government to be on our side and not against us. And that means, in a lot of ways, for government to get out of the way to allow our families and our businesses to keep more of what they produce, to meet our own priorities.

My own upbringing and what I am today -- with my husband, in a blue-collar job that he has -- allow me a great connection with the vast majority of Americans who live and work and are trying to raise our families.

GIZZI: What was the biggest mistake made in the ’08 campaign?

PALIN: The biggest mistake made was that I could have called more shots on this: the opportunities that were not seized to speak to more Americans via media. I was not allowed to do very many interviews, and the interviews that I did were not necessarily those I would have chosen. But I was so thankful to have the opportunity to run with John McCain that I was not going to argue with the strategy decisions that some of his people were making regarding the media contacts.But if I would have been in charge, I would have wanted to speak to more reporters because that’s how you get your message out to the electorate.

GIZZI: And what was the most important lesson you learned from the campaign?

PALIN: The campaign was 99.9% amazing and invigorating and inspiring. But looking back, there were so many things that were outside of my control. I was in a campaign in which I did not know the people individually running the campaign. So I had to put my life, my career, my family, and my reputation in their hands. That’s kind of a scary thing to do when you don’t know the people you are working with. Now I have all the faith in the world in Sen. McCain and his family. But some of the folks around him I did not know, and so it was a kind of a risky thing for me to put my faith in the decisions they were making on my behalf.As an administrator, as a chief executive of a state, I am not used to that. I am used to proving my abilities by calling the shots. Then I know the buck stops with me. I made the decisions, and I’m responsible. When others are making decisions for me, as they were in the campaign, and I am the one to live with the fallout from the decisions that were made on my behalf, that is something I am not very comfortable with.

GIZZI: Do you want to give me any names of people?

PALIN: No. But they’re folks who have done this before. Of course, I haven’t done this on a national level before.But my reliance on seeking God’s direction in all that I do -- that is good enough for me. And others who have a different worldview and different strategy on messaging and such, I would like to have the opportunity to prove to them that my gut instincts were going to be quite adequate.

GIZZI: Are you getting a lot of requests to speak around the country for candidates, as you did for Sen. Chambliss?

PALIN: I’m getting a lot of requests to speak. But right now my focus is on Alaska and a lot of the energy projects we are working on.

GIZZI: Who is your role model?

PALIN: Susan B. Anthony. I have great respect there for the history. She was a pro-life feminist and those things that she stood for, and she was so far ahead of her time. It amazes me.

GIZZI: You made it clear in our interviews earlier this year that you were not close to fellow Republicans Sen. Ted Stevens and Rep. Don Young from your state, both of whom you said had a different vision of Alaska’s dealings with the federal government than you did. Were you pleased with the election of Democrat Mark Begich who defeated Stevens and with the re-election of Rep. Young?

PALIN: I met yesterday with Sen.-elect Begich to see that we are on the same page as we move forward as he starts his new job representing Alaska. I thought that Sen. Stevens was going to be re-elected, and it was so close, and that if he were to step aside because he was convicted [on corruption charges], then I would get to appoint a Republican. So I was kind of surprised at the outcome there. It is what it is, and I wish Sen. Begich well. We’ll work well together. He’s going to be in the majority party and that’s all the more reason for Mark Begich and me to work closely together. We will.

GIZZI: Will you run for higher office, such as the U.S. Senate from Alaska in 2010 [when more moderate Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s seat is up]?

PALIN: That’s not in my sites. There’s so much to do as governor.

Read Ann Coulter's EXCLUSIVE HUMAN EVENTS column, Sarah Palin: Conservative of the Year.

House Committee To Talk Bush Impeachment

The House Judicial Committee will “officially hear” testimony regarding what some are calling potentially impeachable offenses on the part of President Bush’s administration. The hearing, which is titled "Executive Power and Its Constitutional Limitations," followed a vote that sent Representative Kucinich's impeachment resolution to the panel.

The hearing isn't explicitly about impeachment, and House members have been warned by Pelosi to temper impeachment talks; but rest assured a few House members, along with witnesses, will openly “express interest” in the possibility of impeachment.

It’s Summer time, and people are bored, so maybe we should just go forward and have an impeachment trial. It has been 10-years since the last one, so it might be a nice distraction from the high gas prices, the record foreclosures, and the growing nuclear threat in Iran. Yeah, I think “We The People…” could use some entertainment.

I decided that the best news report I could use to illustrate the recklessness of this action was from the Iranian “sponsored” news agency:

From Iran: George Bush is a war criminal

Obama To Appoint Piglet Secretary of Defense

Richard Danzig, former Under Secretary of the Navy under Bill Clinton (and the presumptive choice to serve as National Security Advisor under Obama) revealed during an interview that Obama’s security strategy would be based on the lessons learned from that noted diplomat, Winnie the Pooh:

The 100 Acres Diplomacy Plan

Brilliant! The fate of the Western World will rest in the hands of a security philosophy based on a factious bear, whose best friends are a stuttering pig, a depressed donkey, a mean-spirited rabbit, and a bouncing tiger (sorry…two g’s).

Danzig went on to compare European soccer hooligans with terrorist, and terrorist to Luke Skywalker. Obama wasn’t kidding when he said “Change,” I just don’t know if it is “Change We Can Believe In!”

Once again very little was mentioned about this story in the mainstream media in the United States. But the story is front page fonder all around the globe. Not sure Winnie the Pooh is going to help us “regain our place in the world.” Besides most Europeans prefer Paddington the Bear, who unfortunately is unavailable due to immigration “issues (Paddington the Illegal Immigrant Bear).”

President Bush: Drill Here, Drill Now!

In what could be a defining issue of the 2008 elections, President Bush has asked Congress to get behind a proposal to allow off-shore drilling, but the proposal does not go far enough. We need to also open Anwar, which would free America from foreign oil dependency:

President Bush: Oil Independence

This plan should have been initiated more than 20 years ago, but due to the ignorance of the Democratic Party (bowing to environmentalist terrorist), and the lack of fortitude on the part of some Republicans, it has taken a crisis for us to do the right thing, which most American’s support:

Over 60% of Americans Want More Drilling for Oil

Pundits will point to the fact that this will not relieve oil concerns now, well guess what, neither will alternative fuel options (which are not guaranteed technologies!). We cannot delay any further, and need to start aggressively pursuing oil were we know it is, encourage energy efficiency through technology, and sound alternative energy sources to avert further dependencies from beyond our borders.

Reap What We Sow: Farm Bill 2419

The Senate passed a new farm bill, a mammoth $289 billion proposal that President Bush has stated he will veto. The Senate vote easily reached the two-thirds of votes needed to override a veto (77-to-15).

Scott Stanzel, White House spokesman, regarding the Farm Bill, stating “it is just as bad for American taxpayers." President Bush already signaled his intention to veto the bill if it appeared before him, but that may mean very little.

The farm bill is being portrayed as a bill that would help the little guy, the family farmer. This bill does very little for the small farmer, and does not help those farmers that grow vegetables, fruits, and livestock.

As crop prices soar, American farm incomes are achieving record highs. Since 2002, key crop prices have grown as much as 281 percent, and total farm income has more than doubled. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that net farm income will reach a record $92.3 bil­lion in 2008--a 56 percent increase over 2006. The $89,434 average household income for farmers sig­nificantly exceeds the national average. Addition­ally, crop land values soared another 14 percent last year, bringing them to double their 2000 levels. Large farming operations are now wealthier than ever, and the 2008 Farm Bill does very little to help the struggling farmer.

Key Points Why This Farm Bill Should Be Vetoed:

• The true intend of any farm subsidies should be to raise farmer incomes by making up for low crop prices. Instead, subsidies encourage overproduction, which will in turn lower prices even more. Costly pro­grams to limit plantings are then imple­mented to help raise crop prices again. Any ethanol mandates will raise prices further.
• Farm subsidies should be designed to help struggling family farmers. Instead, they harm those farmers by excluding them from most subsidies; financ­ing the consolidation of small, individually owned farms into business conglomerates; and raising land values to levels that prevent young people from entering farming.
• The desired affect of farm subsidies is to alleviate farmer pov­erty, but the majority of subsidies go to commercial farms, which report an average income of $200,000 and a net worth of nearly $2 million.
• Historically 90 percent of all subsidies go to growers of just five crops (wheat, cotton, corn, soybeans, and rice). Farm subsidies are supposedly needed to keep farmers afloat, yet Farms producing the major­ity of farm products (including fruits, vegetables, beef, and poultry) survive without subsidies.
• Farm subsidies cost Americans billions of dollars each year in higher taxes and higher food costs.

I am for the small family farmer, but the Farm Bill of 2008 does very little to help those truly in need. But you are somehow labeled anti-farm if you oppose this bill. To be in opposition to this bill is to be anti-waste. The current farm bill should be scrapped, and a new bill that represents the needs of the struggling farmer, and the current food world crisis should be pursued.

Track HR 2419

President Bush Honors America’s Heroes

On Memorial Day President Bush attended a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery to pay tribute to the American men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country and their fellow citizens.

During that speech President Bush called out several soldiers, including New Hampshire’s own Nathan Hardy. Nathan is a Navy Seal who was killed in action along side his brother Mike Koch. Although every fallen soldier’s account is unique, there are common threads that each of them share with their brothers in arms. Nathan’s and Mike’s story speaks to the unbreakable bond that soldiers in combat share. A bond that those that have never served could ever understand. A bond that only those that have served can appreciate.

When I read about soldiers such as Nathan and Mike, I could not help but to be reminded of the final paragraph of the Gettysburg Address:

“It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

“The last full measure of devotion to that cause…” Nathan and Mike believed in the mission for which they gave their life. We show our respect for their sacrifice by supporting, without condition, their brothers still serving in harms way.

I have included President Bush’s speech in its entirety, along with local stories about Nathan:

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Mr. Secretary, thank you for the kind introduction. Members of my Cabinet, members of the administration, Admiral Mullen, members of the United States Congress, Senator Warner and Congressman Skelton, members of the military, our veterans, honored guests, families of the fallen: Laura and I are honored to be with you on Memorial Day and thank you for coming.

A few moments ago, I placed a wreath upon the tomb of three brave American[s] who gave their lives in service to our nation. The names of these honored are known only to the Creator who delivered them home from the anguish of war -- but their valor is known to us all. It's the same valor that endured the stinging cold of Valley Forge. It is the same valor that planted the proud colors of a great nation on a mountaintop on Iwo Jima. It is the same valor that charged fearlessly through the assault of enemy fire from the mountains of Afghanistan to the deserts of Iraq. It is the valor that has defined the armed forces of the United States of America throughout our history.

Today, we gather to honor those who gave everything to preserve our way of life. The men and women we honor here served for liberty. They sacrificed for liberty. And in countless acts of courage, they died for liberty. From faraway lands, they were returned to cemeteries like this one, where broken hearts received their broken bodies -- they found peace beneath the white headstones in the land they fought to defend.

It is a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom that the number of headstones in a place such as this grows with every new Memorial Day. In a world where freedom is constantly under attack and in a world where our security is challenged, the joys of liberty are often purchased by the sacrifices of those who serve a cause greater than themselves. Today we mourn and remember all who have given their lives in the line of duty. Today we lift up our hearts especially those who've fallen in the past year.

We remember Army Specialist Ronald Tucker of Fountain, Colorado. As a young man, Ronnie was known for having an infectious smile and a prankster's sense of humor. And then he joined the United States Army, which brought out a more mature side in him. Ronnie transformed from a lighthearted teenager into a devoted soldier and a dutiful son who called his mother every day from his post in Iraq. In his final act of duty, less than a month ago, he worked with other members of his unit to build a soccer field for Iraqi children. As he drove back to his base, an enemy bomb robbed him of his life. And today our nation grieves for the loss of Ronnie Tucker.

We remember two Navy SEALS -- Nathan Hardy of Durham, New Hampshire, and Michael Koch of State College, Pennsylvania. Nate and Mike were partners in the field and they were close friends in the barracks. Through several missions together, they had developed the unique bond of brotherhood that comes from trusting another with your life. They even shared a battlefield tradition: They would often head into battle with American flags clutched to their chests underneath their uniform. Nate and Mike performed this ritual for the last time on February the 4th -- they both laid down their lives in Iraq after being ambushed by terrorists. These two friends spent their last few moments on earth together, doing what they loved most -- defending the United States of America. Today, Nathan Hardy and Mike Koch lay at rest next to each other right here on the grounds of Arlington.

The men and women of American armed forces perform extraordinary acts of heroism every single day. Like the nation they serve, they do not glory in the devastation of war. They also do not flinch from combat when liberty and justice are embattled. Ronald Tucker, Nathan Hardy and Mike Koch make clear, they do not waver -- even in the face of danger.

And so today, here in Washington and across our country, we pay tribute to all who have fallen -- a tribute never equal to the debt they are owed. We will forever honor their memories. We will forever search for their comrades, the POWs and MIAs. And we pledge -- we offer a solemn pledge to persevere and to provide the security for our citizens and secure the peace for which they fought.
The soil of Arlington and other sites is filled with liberty's defenders. It is nourished by their heroism. It is watered by the silent tears of the mothers and fathers, and husbands and wives, and sons and daughters they left behind. Today we pray for God's blessing on all who grieve and ask the Almighty to strengthen and comfort them today and everyday.

On this Memorial Day, I stand before you as the Commander-in-Chief and try to tell you how proud I am at the sacrifice and service of the men and women who wear our uniform. They're an awesome bunch of people and the United States is blessed to have such citizens.

I am humbled by those who have made the ultimate sacrifice that allow a free civilization to endure and flourish. It only remains for us, the heirs of their legacy, to have the courage and the character to follow their lead -- and to preserve America as the greatest nation on earth and the last best hope for mankind.

May God bless you and may God bless America.


Additional local Stories of Nathan Hardy:

President Bush Mentions Fallen NH Navy Seal

Navy Seal Nathan Hardy of Durham, NH Remembered

The Next “Greatest Generation”

I read with great interest a recent story about the rapid passing of those who came of age during World War II; those people who are part of what we now refer to as the Greatest Generation:

The Passing of the Greatest Generation

Each day we lose a thousand stories, a thousand tales of selfless sacrifice and commitment. Those that are part of the Greatest Generation did not realize their exclusive membership, and most would likely tell you that they “did what they had to do.” The Greatest Generation showed us what it means to truly, and unconditionally, “love” your country. The Greatest Generation looked to America’s greatness, and forgave its mistakes.

The Greatest Generation includes a solider that landed at Normandy or fought at Iwo Jima. The Greatest Generation are the women who helped revitalized the industry might of a country that had suffered for over ten-years from econometric instability. The Greatest Generation are those that moved beyond the War, and led the United States into a rebirth of greatness. Yet they remained humble, casual about their place in history. Maybe humility and a magnanimous call to duty are the greatest lesson they taught us?

How will your generation be judged, not only by history, but compared to the Greatest Generation? Have the generations that followed squandered what was secured for them through the sacrifice demonstrated by the Greatest Generation? Have we become too spoiled and arrogant? Will the generations that followed be looked upon as the “anti-Greatest Generations?” Will we ever see the next "Greatest Generation?"

Only time will tell.

Democratic Policies Are To Blame For Our Energy Problems

This week Congress called the oil executives before the House for “hearings.” What in fact happened was not about solving the problem at hand, but what Democratic do best…belittle, chastise, and blame others for their own incompetence!

Witness this exchange between the “esteem” Congresswoman Maxine Waters (pay close attention to what happens at 1:13 into the video):

The equation is easy. Socialism = Liberalism = Progressivism = Failure.

This November, if we go to the polls and further strengthen the Democrats hold on this country, Ms. Waters threats will become reality. History has shown us that “socialism” does not stop at taking over one element of industry.

Gas prices did not go through the roof until the Democrats took control of Congress. The Democratic Party’s failures, and the inaction of the Republican Party, over these past decades has placed America in this position:

• Failure to build additional refineries to create reserves faster
• Failure to allow drilling off-shore and in protected areas
• Failure to encourage exploration for new sources
• Failure to expanding nuclear power options
• Failure to support a transit system that provides transportation faster, cleaner, and cheaper

It is time for us to stop blaming big oil, look in the mirror for who is to blame, and then work together to solve an issue threatening to cripple our nation!

Conservatism: The Report of Our Death is Greatly Exaggerated

In this modern age can any one political movement or party fade away, say like the old Whig Party, or my favorite the Bull Moose Party? Former Presidential candidate Fred Thompson recently talked about the overstated reporting that the conservative movement was dead:

Wall Street Journal: Fred Thompson Opinion Piece

Who holds the key to the success of the Conservative movement? Who might be our next Barry Goldwater or Ronald Reagan? Or is the Conservative going the way of the Caspian Tiger?

Mac Attack: Now What?

Former Governor Mitt Romney official suspended his campaign, all put paving the way for Senator John McCain to be the next Republican presidential nominee. Romney’s announcement came on the day both appeared before the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), stating - “If I fight on in my campaign, all the way to the convention … I’d forestall the launch of a national campaign and, frankly, I’d be making it easier for Sen. Clinton or Obama to win,”

So there it is, and all eyes are now looking to the heart of the Republican Party, the Conservatives, to see what is in store next. The media, and for that matter the Democratic Party, would like nothing more than to rip the unity of the Republican Party apart. But now is not the time for petty squabbling and indecision, which would, as Romney stated, make it easier for Sen. Clinton and Obama to win in November.

The worse thing the Conservatives can do right now is to choose not to participate in the process. The second worse thing we can do is vote for Obama or Clinton, as some have suggested. In the words of President Reagan - "Republicans believe every day is 4th of July, but Democrats believe every day is April 15." That statement is truer today, than when Reagan first uttered it over 30 years ago. So how are we Conservatives going to respond?

Neither McCain nor Romney are perfect Conservatives, and some would argue that McCain is just as likely to lean to Left on some issues, than to the Right. So be it. A strong national defense, limited government, lower taxes – controlled spending, pro-family and life, tough border control …..these are part of the foundation that defines the modern American Conservative. We fail the Conservative movement if we pack up our toys and walk off the playground just because we don’t get our way. Is that what we did when Washington tried to pass the horrendous immigration reform of 2007? No, we made our voices heard….and they listened, including McCain. They may not have liked it, and some even refer to us as hateful, racist, and bigots. When anti-Conservatives lose on their ideas, they resort to name-calling.

It is important for the Conservatives to remain the conscience of the party, and we can do that by reminding McCain what Ronald Reagan stood for.

USA Today: Should Conservatives Back Mac

Homer Says - "Nuclear Good!"

During a recent trip to Portsmouth, NH, Hillary Clinton unveiled what her energy plan might look like if she were president. As with many “energy plans” we have seen from some Democrat hopefuls, it starts by demonizing the oil company’s and quickly moves into green initiatives. However, what stood out during the speech was Ms. Clinton’s exchange on nuclear power (excerpts from the Foster’s Daily Democrat):

“Picking up on a point from Monday night's presidential candidates' debate in South Carolina, Clinton said she's not for nuclear power and "I'm not 100 percent against it." She said there remains no plan to dispose of the waste, which prompted a young, well-dressed boy in the front row to note "the French do have some ways of recycling nuclear waste." She said that option was discarded long ago due to security concerns.”

What I found interesting was the interaction with the young man regarding the recycling of nuclear waste. 80% of Frances electricity comes from nuclear power (compared to 20% in the US). 96% of the waste matter is recycled/reused. Qiao Wu, University of Oregon, learned that the recycling process only added 6% to the total cost of the power, which is still cheaper than what the average American pays (Gazette Times - Reuse Nuclear Waste)! France also seems to be handling the security concerns on this matter rather effectively. How is it possible that France is able to manage this, and America couldn’t?

We need to become less dependant on foreign oil, but we must be prepared to embrace a more balanced approach to any possible solutions. Solar power = Too expensive, still inefficient. Wind power = "Not in my backyard (West Virginia, Massachusetts Propaganda – Kennedy’s Back Yard)," Coal = US Inventory is strong, but still burns too dirty. Biofuels = False promises (Washington Post - False Hope of Biofuels for now). Nuclear = Perceived as dangerous and dirty (Bum rap? - Nuclear Energy Industry)

Nuclear is not perfect, but to dismiss it outright like so many have done is the wrong reaction. What is frustrating is that France has achieved their nuclear program within 30 years, using an American designed reactor (Westinghouse)! America can learn from France, but also from the once aggressive anti-nuclear country of Finland (Ministry of Trade and Industry), which is moving towards more nuclear power. Unfortunately, most Americans learn about nuclear power from what the see on the Simpsons (d-uh!).

America’s energy future will continue to include oil. But for America to reduce its dependencies on foreign oil, we must not rule out any valid opportunity because of ill-conceived prejudices. Our plan must include all of the above mention energy options (including Nuclear) and energy conservation that does not hinder America’s way of life.

I applaud the young man for having the courage to address Ms. Clinton. I just wish that she had more respect to explore the conversation beyond the typical left-wing response. Liberals like to bring up France’s healthcare system as a model of efficiency (which it far from reality), but ignore their energy program, which is extremely successful, simple because nuclear power is at the core (pardon the pun) of the plan.

PBS – Frontline Discussion on France’s Attitude on Nuclear Power:

Frontline - France and Nuclear Power

"Don" Harry Reid: The Godfather of Defeat

“Don” Harry Reid is preparing to “go to the mattresses” during the pending debate on the Iraq War. Warning the Senate that the debate will continue throughout the night, Don Harry has ordered that cots be placed off the Senate floor.

The Godfather, along with fellow Senpronos, Dicky “The Claw” Durbin and Chucky “Childs Play” Schumer, threatened to use the Sergeant at Arms to haul those lawmakers who ignore the debate into the Senate Chamber.

A word of advice to Don Harry…...Drop the gavel, grab the cannoli’s.

Just a reminder on the position the Democrat’s took when it was convenient for them:

Navy Seal Danny Dietz

Against the wishing “of some concerned parents” such as Emily Cassidy (Denver Post: Parents Protest), a statue of Navy Seal Danny Dietz, who perished while serving in Afghanistan (Rocky Mountain News Profile of Danny), was dedicated on July 4, 2007( Slapstick Politics: Navy Seal Danny Dietz Memorial).

The stated opposition to the memorial was that it promoted violence, and its placement in a park close to an elementary school, sent the wrong message. What??!!??

Danny Dietz is the type of hero our elementary school children, or for that matter all Americans, need to learn about. I applaud the Citizens of Littleton, CO for standing with Danny’s family.

And for those people who opposed this memorial, what were you thinking? I find your stated reason (anti-gun) disingenuous and un-American. That’s right, un-American, and you should be ashamed of yourself.

Danny Dietz is a hero and this memorial was the least we could do to thank him and his family for Danny’s sacrifice.

Independence Day 2007

Happy 4^th of July! To those severing in the US Military and their families a special thank-you for your service and devotion.

We have heard it time and again just how really blessed we are to have been born in the United States of America. For those of us who have woken up every morning with the warmth of the Sun in this free republic, have we truly taken inventory of our blessings? Or have we regrettably taken our lives for granted?

The freedom afforded us today came at a cost none of us will ever be able to repay. We have an obligation to honor those whose deeds of the past guaranteed our freedoms and security today. We must honor in action, not just in words, so that we can at least start to repay the debt we owe the millions who so bravely committed themselves to our liberty.

God Bless America

United We Stand, Divided We Fall

Everyday I read the newspapers (like the New York Times), the web pages/ blogs (such as The Nation), and listen to the news, and see my fellow countrymen turning against America.

I find myself wondering how a person born and educated in America could turn their backs on their country in the belief that they are the true conscientious of the American people. We are letting self-professed diplomats, in movements such as Press for Progress, Code Pink, and Students for a Democratic Society drive the propaganda of the terrorist. Most of these “anti-war” protesters started their efforts for purely political reasons (defeat Bush at all cost), and now are nothing more than puppets for those in the world that believe in the complete and udder destruction of all nations that do not submit to their injudicious ways.

We have let these self-righteous socialist hijack the debate with their aggrandizing and “flower in my hair” nonsense. They offer no solutions other than “it is Americas fault, shame on us,” or the old stand-by, Bush lied. Why don’t we just impeach the President? The Democrats control the Senate and the House, if they believed he lied, they have the power. But they won’t use it. Because unlike the nitwits with the bumper stickers “No one died when Clinton lied,” our representatives know that Bush didn’t lie or deceive America.

These want to be “hippies” scream bloody murder when we involve ourselves in world events, yet turn their backs when tyrants, terrorist and thugs meddle in the affairs of peaceful nations (Spain, England, Germany, France, Iraq, America, Philippines, to name a few). All of these nations have freely elected governments. But the terrorist didn’t like the results, so they make the bombs, brainwash some misguided kid to do their dirty work, and “Allah be praised.”

Wake up America. We are not the enemy. Are we doomed to repeat the mistakes of those who lived before us? The Nazis in Europe (20 million dead), Stalin’s purging and forced famine in Russia (20 million +), Mao’s Cultural Revolution (50 million dead), and now radical Islam efforts to fulfill Muhammad’s command of one Islamic nation. Radical Muslims uses the freedoms enjoyed in America and Europe against us. A recent survey of young Muslims in Britain revealed their belief that British law should be replaced with Sharia law. The Muslim Brotherhood is outlawed in most Islamic nations, but thrives in Europe, especially in England and France. They have stated that all nations will fall and submit to Sharia law.

Instead of debating “a non-binding resolution (there’s an oxymoron for you),” we should be supporting a binding resolutions that simple states that “We as Americans support the efforts of our brave soldiers to take whatever steps necessary to rid the world of those that proclaim to be the enemies of peace and freedom, and through their charter attempt to circumvent the authority of sovereign nations to live without threat and fear of their way of life.”

The reality is that these people are not “anti-war,” but anti-American. We shouldn’t let these “self-righteous” malcontents go unchecked. Like those who called for appeasement and isolationism during World War II, we have amongst us a group of people who believe that being a dissent is patriotic. They couldn't be more wrong.

I look forward to the comments calling me a racist and warmonger. I am neither. I am a person who possesses the insight and commonsense that seems to have been abandoned by some of my fellow Americans.

Jeff Chidester

The Legacy of Rosie

Rosie is off the airwaves for now, but she leaves in her wake misinformation for the brainless of this world to feast upon. Many of her statements were not only careless, but hurtful to those personal touched by the tragedy of terrorism. President Bush has somehow been turned into the embodiment of evil by Ms. O'Donnell's warped sense of reality. President Bush’s desire to keep this country safe has been characterized by Ms. O'Donnell as a mantra shared by no one.

I want this war to be over, as do all Americans. But the sad reality is that this war will never end. We need to get it through our “can’t we all just get along” mentality that it is not just about Iraq. We doom ourselves to more bloodshed when we fail to acknowledge that this war we are fighting is not directed against an existing country, but a dogma known as Islam. Forget about “fanatical Islam,” because the reality is the core of the religion is obsessed with the rebuilding a one Muslim nation called Caliphate. Caliphate would be a country knowing no borders, but would have only one religion, Islam. But before they achieve Caliphate they have to destroy those that are standing in their way, including America, Israel, and yes, other Muslims.

People, including some Muslims, will write in denying that is the ultimate goal. They have been deceived and are ignoring the writings of the Koran and teachings of the strongest voices among Muslims. The following quote says it all:

"[President] Bush says that we want to enslave people and oppress their freedom of speech," says Abu Abdullah, a senior member of Hizb ut-Tahrir, the Party of Liberation. "But we want to free all people from being slaves of men and make them slaves of Allah."

Now this is a mantra. This is what we are up against. That wasn’t even the most “radical” member of the Muslim leadership. How do you think our laws would fit within the nation of Caliphate? They wouldn’t.

What is even worse is that some Americans, such as Ms. O’Donnell, have regurgitated the propaganda that Muslim terrorist have spent millions of dollars, and countless dead bodies, to promote. That is not only “un-American,” it is irresponsible and dangerous. Ms. O’Donnell (and all of you who believe the same way), Sept. 11, 2001 did happen. You are right when you say it was staged, by 19 Muslim terrorist who believed that they were at war with America. Ms. O’Donnell, and all of those likeminded people, owe the thousands of men, women, and children who have suffered because of that act an apology. To belittle this act of aggression and then lay it at the feet of your fellow American citizens is disgusting and sad.

Jeff Chidester

Still that Shining City on a Hill

President Bush poll numbers continue to be low, but what does that really mean? I wonder what President Lincoln’s job approval rating would have been like just prior to Gettysburg. What would the polls have said about President Washington after he used force to put down the Farmers Rebellion of 1793?

There will always be naysayers and malcontents who will oppose a leader on the basis of party affiliation, regardless of the cause. Lincoln was a Republican, and without a doubt would have faced the types of bashing we see President Bush subjected to now. When this country was founded, there were no political parties. President Washington viewed political parties as factions counter to the public good. Seeing what is happening now, President Washington was right.

We are the most powerful nation that has ever existed on the planet. No nation has wielded more power than we have today, but used it so reluctantly. This country has made mistakes, as all nations have. But when all is said and done, as President Reagan stated, after more than 200 years America is that bright and shining city on a hill. America is still a beacon, still a magnet for all that must have freedom. Caesar’s Rome, Napoleon’s France, Hitler’s Germany, Stalin’s Russia, Sadam Hussein’s Iraq all once wielded great power, and all too often used that power to oppress entire continents. The blatant atrocities committed by these empires are examples of how true power corrupts. Because we as Americans hold freedom so dear, we all too often in the past have been slow to react to the enemies of freedom. We can no longer afford the luxury of waiting to be attacked first; the price is too high, and the stakes are too great.

We live in a new world. A world of wondrous marvels and unprecedented prosperity. A world where the enemies of freedom have blogs to try and justify their despicable acts. A world where people in our own nation compare our soldiers to Nazis, yet refer to al Qaeda as freedom fighters. Freedom fighters do not behead innocent civilians. Freedom fighters do not bomb their own people indiscriminately.

History will show the world that we were right that America and her allies drew a line in the sand against the gutless terrorists who want to impose their intolerant ways on the rest of the world by way of the sword (or in al Qaeda’s case, the cowardly bomb).

My position is far more popular than the news and polls show. It is not a position derived from political rhetoric, but from the knowledge of the past. America’s past as a nation committed to justice, and that evil (regardless of what name they use) will never survive or prosper as long as that bright and shining city stands strong and united.

Jeff Chidester