This is nothing new. This blog is fairly simple.
It’s not a Conservative thing. It’s not a Liberal thing.
Memorial Day is a long standing tradition held by the American people first starting by freed Slaves after the Civil War in 1865. It’s changed dates, however the intent has also been the same; We remember those who have fallen for our great Union.
The cost of freedom is sacrifice and it is constantly being paid. Liberty is no longer protected by simply staying at our shores, in an attempt to keep evil from tainting it. Human nature and people who will organize against liberty itself must be sought out. Their grip must be loosen on those values and people they hold tight.
God Bless the United States of America. All those fallen – YOU are my reason for believe in this great Republic. This is no experiment, we have passed all tests; Damn it, this is America home of the Brave!
Let’s unite today.
Friends, please enjoy a moment of remembrance at 3 p.m. Washington D.C. time. Together as a nation we shall meditate with one mind.
We will beacon God today. We will ask for his protection and thank him for the angels he has sent to protect this society we hold so dear.
It is also tradition to fly your flags half staff until noon. Please observe.
To the men and women in service now: Thank you. I’d have the privilege to meet so many of you in the past month. You honor me with your friendship. I am humbled by your attention. Stand strong. As always, “You protect there, and I’ll protect here.”
Have a great Memorial Day.
Here one day and gone the next. The immigration issue was at the forefront in the Senate yesterday morning until Senator Reid (D-NV) pulled it, to be debated again in late June.
Senator John McCain had time to speak some others and I before address the Oklahoma State Legislature.
I had the pleasure of partaking in a conference call for major press networks and blogger media persons with Senator John McCain yesterday. Our topic was Government Efficiency, however I quickly learned that McCain’s, what was suppose to be short and sweet, comments on the immigration bill facing the Senate yesterday would carry the entire questioning period.
I’ve stood silent on the Immigration issue this time. In fact, it’s the first time. About a year ago when the nation’s largest cities were holding mass organized protest, I counter protested and made state-wide headlines in Dallas, Texas. My shirt read: “A day without Intruders… sounds great!” I proudly waved the largest American flag in the middle of a crowd that despised me. I endured the persecution of my so-called peers for my views and this nation.
Needless to say, this is a topic that is on the forefront of our minds and McCain stated that this issue in particular is the most passionate issue of the Republican party. He later revised his comments saying that “abortion may” have a greater passion.
You could hear the restlessness in the Senator’s voice. He is having to defend a stance in which there are “increasing pressures” from different sides. McCain was actually surprised by the skepticism of the far right.
He was sure to touch on the topic of amnesty when saying, “this is not amnesty…not…according to the definition.” He also quickly iterated that “[we] are punishing families… a $5,000 fine, 8 years [waiting period], and they must return to their country of origin.”
While McCain was calm, he sure seemed passively annoyed by the questions that have already been answered. The highlight of the conference was when a reporter asked McCain to comment on Former Massachusetts Governor and fellow Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney’s stance; “In the case of Governor Romney, you know, maybe I should wait a couple of weeks and see if it changes, because it’s changed in less than a year from his position before…maybe his solution will be to get out his small-varmint gun and drive those Guatemalans off his lawn.’’
McCain is known for his sometimes corny sense of humor, however I had to join him on this one. This comment comes in reference to a piece in The Boston Globe which pointed out that Romney had contracted a company to do his lawn that employed illegals.
This mid day jab was quickly responded to by Kevin Madden, a spokesman for Romney, “Governor Romney has been very clear that he opposes this immigration agreement, which clearly falls short of the American public’s expectations,’’ he went further to state, “It seems that a certain candidate who brokered this flawed plan is having a very difficult time coming to terms with the political fallout that has ensued and has abandoned any and all substantive arguments for it.’’
Earlier in the conference McCain also gave more insight into the reports that say he used the “F” word targeting fellow Republican and Immigration negotiator Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). He said the reports were “a bit exaggerated,” but also stated that “we are very frank with each other [at times].” Senator Cornyn’s office will not confirm that the “F” word was used by Senator McCain.
McCain, having one of the strongest supports on the internet and his ecampaign, jokingly stated that he would “love to have YouTube” in the closed door sessions; he thinks that it would give “insight” and shed some light to the American public. He went further to state, “it will surprise” and educate the people on how things are done and said.
I should point out that the Senator acknowledges that there is some unsubstantiated disdain from the far left regarding this bill. He believes that it is because of “personal dislike for this President” and followed up by calling it, “irrational dislike.”
McCain pointed out that he is very close to the Hispanic leadership in his home state of Arizona, where reportedly 50% of the illegal crossings happen. He thinks that this is an issue that will help his party politically. He described the Hispanic people a, “small business, small government, and pro life.” He was passionate when he articulated, “we have to get” this issue out of the way. He believes there will be “pressures” in support of this bill in the near future from Labor Unions and the political Hispanic community.
While immigration was on the forefront of everyone’s tongue, I carefully noted the following:
- McCain wished, yes I said: wished, that Fred Thompson was involved in this debate; stating that Thompson too had changed his view (away from support).
- McCain reiterated that we need to stay in Iraq, saying it will take “patience and time….. unfortunately, time’s not on our side.”
- McCain’s entire purpose of the meeting might go missed by the mainstream media, but not by this blogger. McCain told us that we need to “clean up the corruption,” which he plans to lead. He also stated what was the most overlooked line, “[I would] reform defense acquisition.” Reference to Halliburton and Iraq contracts? Maybe the ‘maverick isn’t dead.’
This is an article written by Ali A. Akbar. Akbar is currently being syndicated and writes for: Blogs4McCain, Razor Politics, McCain Texas, Ali A. Akbar & Friends, and his personal temporary blog: Ali Talks. His editor can be contacted by clicking here.
Resources:
Romney’s Press Release: https://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/Governor_Mitt_Romney_On_The_Senate_Immigration_Agreement
Fred Thompson’s Article on National Review: http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=YjEzYTc5YjA2ZGNiZjlmZDJkMTllYmE4MjE3ZmY1OTY=
Senator John McCain’s Address to the Oklahoma State Legislature: http://www.johnmccain.com/Informing/News/Speeches/Read.aspx?guid=48474414-5864-4de8-921e-d2d51de82bdd
Legislation being Pulled to June: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18781820/
The Boston Globe: http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2006/12/01/illegal_immigrants_toiled_for_governor/
Hannity & Colmes hosted a special preview segment for tonight’s debate moderated by Fox News Washington Bureau Chief, Brit Hume. They were attempting to build up hype, calling this a truly unique debate in which lines could be crossed and swords would be drawn. How surprisingly correct they were!
Tonight’s highlight was watching former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani quickly, and in complete disregard to the rules of the debate, respond to a statement made by Congressman Ron Paul. This was a moment of tension in a debate that might be unrivaled by past debates of this nature. It was a moment that made me proud to call myself American.
Paul was asked a series of questions regarding border defense and foreign policy. He took the opportunity to promote the ideology of isolationism. It’s a view that he thinks is deeply Conservative, deeply Republican, and inherently the only Constitutional interruption. (hmmm, that makes you wonder – Paul must think himself and his thoughts paramount. Yep, sounds like an elitist GOP member to me.) When asked if the events of 9/11 changed foreign policy by veering away from isolationism, he stated, “No!” and went on to warrant his claim.
Fox puts it better:
“They attack us because we’ve been over there. We’ve been bombing Iraq for 10 years. We’ve been in the Middle East — I think (Ronald) Reagan was right. We don’t understand the irrationality of Middle Eastern politics. Right now, we’re building an embassy in Iraq that is bigger than the Vatican. We’re building 14 permanent bases. What would we say here if China was doing this in our country or in the Gulf of Mexico? We would be objecting,” Paul said in explaining his opposition to going to war in Iraq.
“They are delighted that we’re over there because Usama bin Laden has said ‘I’m glad you’re over on our sand because we can target you so much easier.’ They have already now since that time they’ve killed 3,400 of our men and I don’t think it was necessary,” Paul continued
“That’s really an extraordinary statement,” Giuliani said, interrupting FOX News panelist Wendell Goler. “That’s really an extraordinary statement, as someone who lived through the attack of Sept. 11, that we invited the attack because we were attacking Iraq. I don’t think I have ever heard that before and I have heard some pretty absurd explanations for Sept. 11. I would ask the congressman withdraw that comment and tell us that he didn’t really mean that.”
Paul refused to withdraw his statements and went on to even reestablish his “theory.” After the debate Giuliani went on a special edition of Hannity & Colmes to explain that we were attacked because of our respect of women and our freedoms.
Folks, if you missed it: You missed the first real debate. There was substance.
South Carolinians were left rolling in their seats by the commentary of these men. It was quite a show.
Here’s a brief run down:
McCain: stood his ground and made his stances look significant in comparison to the attacks that were lodged at him on issues such as immigration, torture, and campaign financing. McCain touched on something no other defender of this war has: the correct analysis of why the enemy will follow us to the Homeland.
Giuliani: deserved the respect of everyone in the debate. Camp Rudy must be overjoyed not only with his heart-filled rebuttal against Paul, but Romney and McCain going at it help! Rudy also agreed with McCain on the theory that this enemy will follow us to the Homeland if we retreat. (there’s a blog!)
Romney: was again the most polished man out there. He led the government efficiency fight. I’m warming up to him, however his record does not impress me one bit! He has a lot to over come, however much time to overcome it in.
Hunter: shined! I’m more and more impressed by this Californian Conservative each day that passes. He alone had statements to say regarding China and their practices. He showed strong conviction.
Brownback: made one statement I’d like to highlight. He “condemn the statements of Harry Reid” stating that the war was lost.
Thompson: You don’t know how happy I was when Goler questioned Thompson about his Iraq stance. This man needs to throw in the towel. I’d almost vote for Hillary before I voted for Thompson. His plan violates Iraqi sovereignty, international law, and each and every point of Conservatism. I’ll blog on this at a later time (if the man is still in the race).
Huckabee: had a clearer message tonight then he has had previously. It took him a while to warm up, however I think
Gilmore: was too much about himself and not about policy. This man causes a stir in the debate that only benefits his opponents and the advertisers. Thank you Gilmore; you made the debate worth watching all the way through.
Tancredo: is warming up in front of the camera. He said two things that sparked my attention. First, he stated that the only job of the federal government is to provide defense. Secondly he emphasized on how important it is to win this war on terror; “when we go under, West Civilization goes under……[policy that] makes them fearful of you.”
Paul: Open mouth, insert foot. There goes the campaign.
The top tier (John, Rudy, and Mitt) held it tight, regardless of what the polls are currently showing.
Many of you already have heard the buzz going on around the internet. It’s everywhere. Here’s he original excerpt.
Subject: FW: Don’t pump gas May 15th 2007
NO GAS…On May 15th 2007
Don’t pump gas on may 15th
In April 1997, there was a “gas out” conducted nationwide in protest of gas prices. Gasoline prices dropped 30 cents a gallon overnight.
On May 15th 2007, all internet users are to not go to a gas station in protest of high gas prices. Gas is now over $3.00 a gallon in most places.
There are 73,000,000+ American members currently on the internet network, and the average car takes about 30 to 50 dollars to fill up.
If all users did not go to the pump on the 15th, it would take $2,292,000,000.00 (that’s almost 3 BILLION) out of the oil companies pockets for just one day, so please do not go to the gas station on May 15th and let’s try to put a dent in the Middle Eastern oil industry for at least one day.
If you agree (which I can’t see why you wouldn’t) resend this to all your contact list. With it saying, “Don’t pump gas on May 15th”
Many of you have already faithfully committed to the Populist in nature cause. I want to examine both sides and let you know where I stand. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to bring you some other information like this.
First when you’re handling a story like this you want to send your fact-checker dogs after the information provided. The original source is nice, but far from needed for even a respectable Blogger. I was too young to worry about gas in 1997.
Here’s some interesting and credible information from David Emery of About.com. He states, “There was no nationwide “gas out” in 1997. There was one in 1999, but it didn’t cause gas prices to drop 30 cents per gallon overnight. In fact, it didn’t cause them to drop at all. Despite the popularity of the email campaign, the event itself attracted scant participation and was completely ineffectual.”
Needless to say, he’s a typical writer; I knew immediately he stood opposed to the very idea of a gas out as soon as he learned of it. It amazing what you can learn from someone by their writing and a few courses in a Master’s program in Psychology.
He had a poll, and yes I participated at the end of the article. It asked rather we would participate in this “gas out.”
I’ll give you a look at where the results are:
Looks like he needs to write a more convincing editorial.
In all this confusion it’s important to remember where we are as Americans; as a society.
We stand dependent upon other countries for our energy. This is the very thing that allows us to get by from day to day. It’s our cars, our work, our bread and butter. I’m pro-America, that’s it.
I would like gas prices to drop, however I think it’s going to take Socialistic measures to cause that.
Me, I for one am participating. Why not? I don’t owe anyone anything. I have not committed to previously buying gas. I’m an American.
I’m also taking a step further. I’m not going out on Saturday. My best friend and I, Anh Pham, decided to take some time and just have leisure time at my house. I’ll lose a little bit of my social life, however I’m going to stick that gas to the Corporations and tell them that they can keep it. I’m pro-business and a fiscal Conservative, however there’s a point of morality that will cause one to be concerned. These big Corporations have crossed regarding Ali Akbar!
I wont be seeing you at the gas pump tomorrow.
Resources:
About.com Article: http://urbanlegends.about.com/od/government/a/gas_boycott.htm
Common Copyright Laws apply. Do not reproduce this article and/or any section without written permission from Ali A. Akbar. aliunt (at) yahoo.com. Thank you. May 12, 2007. This article has not been edited.
Below is a resolution. We did it. We ALL did it.
For those of you who have successfully avoided this huge MySpace controversy, allow me to fill you in. Several years ago a group was started called, “Fuck the Troops.” Eventually there became two groups of that nature. Conservatives and others worked tirelessly to get these groups knocked off MySpace. MySpace moderators would do nothing. Hate mail went back and forth between both sides. People were forced into anger and tears. It was a bitter time. I, Akbar, began talks with the original group. I posted an interview. There was outrage at both Zombi, the leader of the FTT group, and even myself! Nonetheless we stand here to make amends for the purpose of the unity of our great Nation. Please stand with us.
After the group was dismembered by Zombi early this morning, I took the url as a marker. It is my intent that no one will be allowed to join this group. I will post the agreement there for future MySpace friends. They will know that for once, just once – we united.
Can you work with me? Everyone who supports the troops and wants a debate without the troops in the middle needs to sign, post bulletins, and contact the people you know. Our message will be loud and it will be clear.
Zombi has generously agreed to pull the plug on the group he originally founded years ago. It stands now as a history mark on what once was the epicenter of hate and controversy.
COMMENT: We need all MySpace users to participate. When you sign it – tell 5, 10, or your entire Top Friends list about it. Simply put: “I agree” or “I concur” and it will be done. We are done. We can move on now. Comments not stating simple “I dissent” or “I agree” will be deleted.
The statement issued by all parties including the former Leader of the FTT is, “We love our American men and women serving our country.”
AKBAR-ZOMBI AGREEMENT
A MySpace Resolution By Politically and Socially Active Individuals
WE meet under the premise of understanding, discussion, debate, and America.
WE shall unite our views regarding the groups, causes, and beliefs concerning: “Fuck the Troops.”
WE bond to this agreement and make our oath here;
WHEREAS, The FTT group has caused quite a stir on MySpace, doing so wrongly;
WHEREAS, The Conservative base and other decent and passionate Americans have acted in response with anger;
WHEREAS, Death threats and other afflictions of hate have been spread on both sides;
WHEREAS, the state of the debate and discussion, including but not limited to the soldiers in and out of the combat zones, of the War on Terror and the Military operations in Iraq is not desirable;
WHEREAS, we are proud to live in America and have the freedoms that we have, including Freedom of Speech;
WHEREAS, one point of view of ideology will cause a tear in American liberty;
WHEREAS, we agree to attempt silence this particular debate and begin anew. This Discussion will be based on war and war alone;
WHEREAS, we thank the people who contribute to our freedom, life, and liberty;
WHEREAS, we will disband and end the FTT group. We will not recreate, encourage or endorse a recreation, or promote the ideas of the group;
WHEREAS, we will discourage hate speech by either side. We also rebuke all statements of hate past, present and/or future;
WHEREAS, this will be a victory for America, MySpace, and Believers in Reason;
WHEREAS, friendship is extended to both parties.
BE IT RESOLVED, the FTT group is disband not to be recreated ever again. Any rouge persons doing so will be censored and discouraged by the members of this agreement. We stand to open the debate for something greater than what it has been. God Bless America.
The Undersigned:
Ali A. Akbar of Ali A. Akbar & Friends Blogging Network, Delegate
Ahron Darnell of FTT and tcotu.net, Delegate
and all agreeing members
My Interview; My Thoughts
Sometimes you find it necessary in journalism, in a debate, or even within your own home. There were points and thoughts in the comments that arose, that I honestly did not foresee.
Allow me to first apologize to those of you who misunderstood my intention and my cause. I don’t think I was as clear as I could have been. I even ended up apologizing to the mother of a Marine because our conversation got out of hand.
This is a topic which should cause unity and Nationalism.
My intention was simple; it was journalistic. I brought the information to the people. Yes, it was desire and Yes, it was requested. Nonetheless, there was a Conservative minority who felt what I did was wrong. I find that interesting and I’m open to discuss the topic. I think when one reads the interview twice (which an overwhelming majority of you did) – one might see that I did in fact no take a neutral stance. I asked plain and simple, in a logical format as my right, for Zombi to pull the plug.
Will you take a minute to analyze the data with me?
Every Troop that commented or messaged me was not only in favor of this interview, but also dealt with this information with grace, short of one, which is questionable. The men and women who protect our country constantly impress me! God Bless them! I do have a new found, and renewed, respect for them.
I was surprised by the number of people who picked up the bulletin post and ran with it all day long. I mean did you take a look at the most viewed Blogs? Yes, our message is now loud and clear – We Support the Troops period!
Here’s a touchy subject for me; My gain. Few, but still some, have questioned my motive. The assume I seek office or I seek a chair in the CNN newsroom. This is not the case. Notice: my blog is not private. You don’t have to subscribe, you can comment without being a friend, and last of all I’m not intending to set it to private. Please remember that I’m not here to form a new Conservative resurgence (not with this little ol’ MySpace blog). I’m here to open the debate and discussion for America’s sake!
I asked for you to go on a journey of truth with me. I won’t shield you from the bad stuff. I’m bringing it all to your doorstep, if you’ll allow me. I’m not going to go around cussing people out or threatening them though. It’s not my style and I’m not shooting to get myself a little publicity.
Remember, although DC choose not to comment, other major Conservative Bloggers did; ReDefeat Communism ’08, DocManJay, and The Foxes. Everyone wanted to know, what makes a man do this?
Here’s your answer: $900. Yes, it made me sad and disgusted.
Knowledge is the first step my friends. I got you that. Here’s the second step:
If this group offends you contact me or one of the other Bloggers and get this group shut down! This is a personal choice. I know that you will respect my personal choice, my vote, – whatever it may or may not be.
This last blog did a lot of good and I’m for one happy to call you friend!
I just wrote from my heart and with no intention to spin a logical argument, so take this for what it’s worth.
Hmmm…
Overall:
God Bless the Troops and their Families who serve Freedom.
Welcome.
