2014 Midterm Election Analysis

ELECTION ANALYSIS 2014

I know...I know...I'm late.  I posted on my Facebook page the day after the elections that I was going to write my analysis of the 2014 Election.  Life gets in the way sometimes.  My daughter wants to play with Daddy, and I'm writing papers on the views of old, dead political philosophers.  This is to say that writing my next blog entry was not on my radar.  Now that I have some time to write, I will now give my analysis of the 2014 Election. Being that every pundit or "know-it-all" (I probably fit into one of those categories) has given their thoughts on the election, this post will be short and sweet.

MESSAGE TO THE REPUBLICANS
Former New York Governor Mario Cuomo famously said, "We campaign in poetry, but we govern in prose.".  Republicans...you were successful in winning more seats in the House, securing your control of the House, you all won gubernatorial elections in several states, and of course, you all won enough seats to take control of the United States Senate, thus having control of both houses of Congress.  CONGRATS!!!  Be careful what you ask for.  Their success is due to:  (1) Playing to the fears and prejudices of their core constituencies, (2) Turning President Obama into the "Boogie Man", (3) Linking Democratic candidates to President Obama and (4) Taking advantage of various events and somehow linking them to President Obama.  However, what is often a person's or group's strength is often their weakness.  Although they were successful in maligning President Obama, they unfortunately didn't inform the American People about THEIR plans for the country.  The GOP's strategy has been simple, yet effective...oppose any and all things President Obama supports, create a false narrative, and don't put forth any substantive proposals that the Democrats can address, oppose or come to some agreement on.  Instead we get:   "WE HATE OBAMACARE!!!  REPEAL IT!!!".  "Obama was responsible for the Ebola virus spreading!!!".  "He salutes while drinking coffee."  "Obama is acting like a KING because of his use of Executive Orders."  Superficial tactics are effective in winning elections, but are ineffective in governance.  The GOP, especially Congressional Republicans have to start acting like adults, and govern.  The "Kenyan Socialist" Narrative is tired, and despite President Obama's dismal approval ratings, his approval ratings are higher than Congress...the institution which will now be controlled by the GOP. Regardless of whether one is a Democrat or Republican, all Americans are cynical (to say the least) towards Congress specifically and politics (and politicians) in general.  If the American people feel that Congress is not doing an effective job, then I can almost guarantee that Democrats will again win the White House in 2016, in addition to winning back some House seats and retaining their Senate seats (I do believe Congress will stay in GOP control for several years).  I can't emphasize this enough...GOP, stand for something, instead of standing against someone.  Push forth your own detailed policy agenda.  Continue outreach to communities that historically not been linked to the Republican Party (I applaud what Senator Rand Paul is doing in his outreach to African American Community).  Honestly...I don't think the GOP will stray far from their current course, and that is being the "Anti-Obama" Party.  They simply can't help themselves.  Example...after the election, there were feelings of goodwill and GOP leaders expressing their intent to work with the Obama Administration on certain issues.  That feeling of goodwill did not last long.  There are Republicans talking about impeaching President Obama, holding more congressional hearings on issues that they have already held hearings on, again...repealing Obamacare, and shutting down the government over immigration reform.  They can't help themselves...it's in their nature.  They somehow feel that their ideological stuborness is cloaked in some false sense of Patrick Henry, "Don't Tread On Me"-patriotism, which will indeed cause gridlock, ill-will and further political cynicism among the public.  It will become clear that the GOP, unfortunately, would rather spend their time attacking President Obama than governing with him.  Congressional Republicans...be careful what you wish for.  To much is given, much is required.

MESSAGE TO DEMOCRATS

You got your asses whupped!!!  Despite raising more money than the GOP, the Democrats certainly weren't able to use those resources effectively.  The Democrats messaging sucked.  And the candidates they recruited to run in some of these races were suspect.  The Democratic incumbents came off looking incompetent (Birth Control...really?  That's so 2012).  But the one strategy that the Democrats employed that was the nail in the proverbial coffin was not aligning themselves with President Obama.  Did the Democrats think that the GOP Opposition Research Department could not search the roll call of Senators and House Members and how they voted on legislation that the White House supported?  They can disavow themselves from the President all they want, but your record is your record.  The Democrats were scared and spineless.  They were more concerned about winning/retaining their seats than standing up for their principles, positions and their President.  Perhaps it is a blessing in disguise that the candidates who avoided the President lost.  Who wants a disloyal person, concerned more about their Senate/House seat, representing their interest?  I know I wouldn't. The Democrats ran away from a man who is the first African American President (A first among all major Western nations).  They ran from a man who since he has been in office, the economy has improved significantly.  Unemployment has decreased considerably.  They ran from a man who has done more for the LGBT than any President in the history of this country.  They ran from a man who gave the order to kill Osama Bin Laden.  They ran from the man who saved General Motors.  In addition to that, the Democrats could have ran on issues such as immigration, minimum wage, education, net neutrality, the environment, etc.  They forgot who they are, what their issues are, and threw the man who was responsible for getting many of them elected, under the proverbial bus.  Democrats...you deserve to lose.  President Obama...you need to stop acting passive aggressive and push forth your programs.  Channel your inner-Lyndon B. Johnson.  You're not back-bencher Congressman representing a district.  You're no longer the "Distinguished Gentleman from Illinois".  You represent the country.  You're the Chief of State.  You're the Commander of Chief of the largest military force in the World.  You're the Chief Executive Officer of the largest and most diverse government in the world.  ACT LIKE IT!!!  I see more people on Facebook share your accomplishments of your administration than the White House does.  DNC...fire your political and communications staff.  Your messaging was garbage, your recruitment of candidates was God awful (Alison Lundergran Grimes....really?), and the incumbents lacked organization and spines.  The "Stay Away From Obama" strategy was a failure.  Better to "go out" standing on your feet than on your knees.  If the GOP is calling a candidate out as a liberal...be damned for who you are.  

MESSAGE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE
According to the New York Times, the 2014 Midterm Elections produced the lowest voter turnout in 72 years.  The articles mentioned that in"...43 states, less than half the eligible population bothered to vote, and no state broke 60 percent."  The national turnout was only 36%.  Young people didn't show up like they did in 2012.  African American and Latino turnout also dropped compared to 2012.  All of these groups are Democratic constituencies.  If you are a supporter of the Democratic Party, and didn't vote and/or encourage others to vote, well...you see the results.  SHAME ON YOURSELVES!!!  The same people who didn't vote, will be the ones who bitch and moan the most.  And for those who did vote...that's great, but voting is the easy part.  Are you now going to hold public officials accountable, or are you going to be the person who continues to bathe oneself in the glow of your television while watching the latest reality t.v. show.  As I have constantly stated, the problem with this country is the American Voter, not the politicians.  As Plato said, "One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors".  You like mediocrity...well...YOU GOT IT!!!

Partisan and ideological loyalties aside, I do pray that Democrats and Republicans alike can be respectful of each other, despite having differences on how this country is ran and in what direction this country is to go.  Enough of the gridlock...get stuff done.  Unlike much of the public, I have a great respect for Congress as an institution, and in the hands of the right people, Congress can become a place where the national interest is more important than self-interest.

That's the Marc-Up.  MEETING ADJOURNED!!!

Selective Outrage

I told myself that I wasn't going to write about this.  I said to myself, "Hey...everybody is talking about this, what more could I possibly add?"  What am I talking about?  After arriving in New York City to address the United Nations, President Obama stepped off of Marine One, the presidential helicopter.  As President Obama stepped down, two Marines saluted the President.  President Obama responded by saluting the Marines, unfortunately while with a cup of coffee in the same hand by which he gave the salute.  Hold up....hold up...do you hear that?  You don't hear that?  It's the sound of the BOINGS from the boners of conservatives who literally stumbled over themselves to get in line and criticize President Obama, for what could be considered "bad optics", or perhaps even "bad judgement".  I'm surprised the servers at Twitter didn't go haywire, as people, who obviously don't like the idea of President Obama even existing, couldn't wait to get their snarky remarks plastered in the "Twitterverse".  "Just saw the #lattesalute.  Mr. President, put down the damn coffee cup." comes from one Twitter user.  Another Twitter user tweeted, "When trying to lead a coalition, show the world you respect the military...".  Congressional Republicans are using this gaffe to raise money.  And of course, you know Fox News has spent a significant amount of time, resources and precious oxygen on this issue.  Frequent Fox News contributor, former Florida Congressman Allen West tweeted, "If there was any doubt as 2 the level of regard Obama has for the military, this latte salute seals to deal."  The main argument(s) from conservatives or conservative-leaning people is that President Obama's lazily-nicknamed "Latte Salute" shows a level of contempt towards the military, and exposes an almost inherent level of antipatriotism.  MY GOD...let's call our Congressmen and Senators, and demand hearings on this issue.  In fact, lets go further...lets bring Congress back in session and call for the impeachment of the President on charges of treason.  People...come on...CALM THE HELL DOWN!!!  

Let's face it, people hate politicians and politics.  We are at a point in our nation's history where political cynicism is at an all-time high.  President Obama's approval rating, according to Gallup is at 43%, the lowest approval rating in his presidency.  As for Congress, a July 15, 2014 Gallup poll has their approval rating at 15%.  We can have a discussion another time about the level of contempt people have for politicians.  It's open season on politicians, and any action that a politician does that can be perceived as negative, only serves to fuel the already high levels of contempt that people have for their elected officials.  The problem that I have with this particular case is the over the top, hyperbolic, and more so...selective outrage when it comes to this incident.  Are we that cynical about politicians, in general?  And specifically, are we that cynical about President Obama?  Let's delve into this further.

I have been studying presidential politics for a long time.  In fact, it was one of my specialty areas while studying political science at Virginia Commonwealth University (Go Rams).  In all of my studies, readings, reports, analysis, research, etc., I have never seen a president so scrutinized, criticized, and disrespected as President Barack Obama.  Before I continue further...go ahead, get it out.  "Marc...you're a liberal!!!"  "Marc...you're a Democrat!!!"  "Marc...you're a lemming!!!"  "Marc...you're an apologist!!!  "The only reason why you like Obama is because he is black. (Yeah, I put it out there)."  "Marc...you think that all white people who criticize Obama are  racist!!!"  Now...have you gotten that out of your system?  You feel good about yourself?  Good...let's continue.  The narrative that has been put forth is the disrespect President Obama allegedly has towards the military, which then puts his patriotism in question.  The problem that I have with that narrative is that it is purely emotional, and can't be substantiated.  Also, the same people who are charging the President with disrespect and antipatriotism, I will argue, haven't shown the same level of respect towards him.  Here is an example.  Since President Obama has been in office, people in general, the media, and especially the conservative media, continue to refer to the President as "Obama", which smacks of disrespect.  You don't have to like the man, or share his views.  But if you claim to be patriotic, at least show some respect to the office, and refer to him as "President Obama".  When people call him "Obama", they are attempting to delegitimize his presidency.  They don't like him being the president, so they have chosen not to acknowledge that he is the president.  The presidency is bigger than one man or woman, but while this one man is the president, refer to him as such.  I have criticized former President Bush many times.  I have attacked Speaker John Boehner before.  But when I did/do, I always used/use their titles, because I have respect for the responsibilities of their positions and the office as a whole, regardless of how I feel about their views.

Let's continue to talk about disrespect.  Before he was president, and since he was elected, those on the self-righteous political right, have questioned this president's religious affiliation, and questioned whether this man was born in America.  When first running for president, then-Senator Obama was "accused" of being a Muslim, as if being a Muslim is a crime.  When did practicing Islam become a prerequisite to run for the Presidency?  At last check, Article II of the United States Constitution said that a President needed to be at least 35 years of age, be a natural born citizen, and have lived at least 14 years in the United States.  Also the First Amendment states that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion."  And as former Secretary of State Colin Powell so eloquently stated on "Meet The Press" in 2008, "...it is permitted to be said such things as, 'Well, you know that Mr. Obama is a Muslim.'  Well the correct answer is, he is not a Muslim, he's a Christian.  He's always been a Christian.  But the really right answer is, what if he is?  Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country?  The answer's no, that's not America.  Is there something wrong with a some seven-year-old Muslim-American kid believing that he or she could be president?  Yet I have heard senior members of my own party drop the suggestion, 'He's a Muslim and he might be associated with terrorists.'  This is not the way we should be doing it in America."  Secretary Powell is right...it is not how we should be doing it in America.  Unfortunately the ignorance and Islamaphobia concerning President Obama's faith continues.  As reported in the Washington Post in July, 2012, a survey conducted by the Pew Forum for Religion and Public Life, stated that "Only 49 percent of voters know that Obama is a Christian, and 17 percent continue to say that he’s a Muslim. Among conservatives, 30 say that he is a Muslim; among the most conservative voters that jumps to 34 percent. When Pew first surveyed this question, in 2008, only 16 percent of conservatives believed that Obama was a Muslim. Put another way, as conservatives grew more familiar with Obama, their view of his religious beliefs moved deeper into fantasy."  Does this train of thought show respect towards the President of the United States?  The same people who claim disrespect because of the salute gaffe...where was your indignation and outrage then?  People questioned whether he was born here, and despite investigations and overwhelming proof to say otherwise, we still have people who question whether President Obama was born in the United States?  WHERE ARE THE CHARGES OF DISREPCT and displays of outrage towards those who make baseless charges against our Commander In Chief? 

Attacks and outright lies have been thrown towards President Obama in a way that borders on compulsive lying.  Fact checking websites have gone bonkers in disproving the lies and litany of attacks made against President Obama.  My personal favorite is the lie of President Obama's 2010 10-day mission to India, which was reported to cost $200 Million...A DAY!!!  Conservative bloggers, pundits and news organizations, couldn't beat off fast enough, as they ran with this story that was first reported by a news website in India from "unnamed sources".  The costs being reported, would have been more than what was spent, per day, during the war in Afghanistan.  I ask again, WHERE WAS THE OUTRAGE?  WHERE WERE THE CHANTS OF DISRESPECT AGAINST THOSE WHO MADE BASELESS CHARGES AGAINST OUR COMMANDER IN CHIEF? 

Let us not forget one of the more disappointing moments in our country's history...a clear example of disrespect shown towards President Obama, and that is the 2009 State of the Union address.  During the address, South Carolina Congressman Joe Wilson, interrupted the speech and yelled "YOU LIE" at President Obama.  President Obama didn't respond, and continued with his speech, while Vice President Biden looked down in shame, and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi looked shocked and appalled.  WHERE WAS THE OUTRAGE?  WHERE WERE THE CHARGES OF DISRESPECT REGARDING CONGRESSMAN WILSON'S ACTIONS?  Fox News and other conservative media types spoke with pride about Congressman Wilson's actions, and a once unknown back-bencher congressman from South Carolina raised over $1 Million in campaign contributions due to his disrespectful actions.

It's one thing to smear President Obama, but to go after his family, is a clear example of disrespect.  Wisconsin Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner attacked First Lady Obama, because of her campaign against obesity, saying that she was not in position to talk about health and obesity, because she has a "big butt".  A sitting Member of Congress says the First Lady has a "big butt", and that doesn't qualify as disrespectful?  Where were the shouts of disrespect?  Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, and Ann Coulter have attacked President Obama's daughters, Malia and Sasha Obama, in the media.  Again, where was the outrage?  

Just admit it...you don't like the man.  I get it.  You never liked him, and you will seek out any opportunity to attack the man.  If people have legitimate POLICY beefs with President Obama and the Obama Administration, that's fine.  I have policy differences with the Obama Administration.  As a citizen, it is your duty to question the actions of your elected officials.  Whether he correctly or incorrectly salutes Marines, which by the way, he is not required to do, the level of disrespect shown towards him is incomparable and unparalled.  President Grant was a drunk.  President Harding had arguably the most scandal-ridden presidency in history.  President Nixon...well...we know what he did.  The conservative deity that is President Reagan, had the Iran-Contra affair, and President Clinton (who I am a fan of), was getting orally gratified in the Oval Office.  You're getting pissed off at President Obama because of a salute gaffe?  You say that he has no respect for the military.  President Bush knowingly authorized military action based on false intelligence, and as a result, thousands of soldiers are dead, with even more casualties.  Nobody ever questioned President Bush's patriotism or respect towards the military.  President Obama however, brought back troops from Iraq and Afghanistan, and is now developing a coalition of nations in the fight against the terrorist group ISIS.  President Obama has been praised (and criticized) for being careful and deliberate in going to war.  Putting soldiers in harm's way, is one of the toughest decisions that any president has to make, and being cautious shows restraint, and a tremendous amount of respect towards those that may be sent overseas to fight.  Back to Congressman West, a 21-year veteran of the United States Army (Thank you for your service), questions President Obama's commitment and respect towards the military.  Is this the same Congressman Allen West who was forced to retire from the Army because of charges of torture?  He discharged his weapon near the head of a suspected terrorist he was questioning based on faulty intelligence that his battalion was going to be ambushed.  The information that then-Lt. Colonel West forced from the suspect was "meaningless", and it was found later that no plans for attack or weapons were found to substantiate Lt. Colonel West's claims of imminent attack.  He was fined $5000, and was able to retire with full benefits.  Does he get criticized?  NOPE!!!  The military, which I respect, is the one institution of government that doesn't get criticized, despite having their own history of corruption, waste, and excess.  They risk their lives for their country, and for that alone, people love them and will excuse most errors or mistakes they may make.  The President of the United States, who also puts his or her's life on the line, works 24 hours a day/7 days a week, makes a salute gaffe, and the public decides to shit a brick.

Regardless of the evidence that I have provided, people will still concentrate on "Latte-Gate".  They will still stimulate themselves by crying out that President Obama is disrespectful.  They will "lie in wait", hoping for President Obama to mess up, providing them a reason to attack.  People criticize him for wearing a tan suit.  People questioned his patriotism as far back as 2007, because he didn't wear an American flag lapel pin.  Really?  So instead of listening to his views on foreign policy, the economy, etc., the public decides to focus on his fashion choices.  Is this the direction our country is heading in?  A public that is so cynical of politics, that we will find the most insignificant things to use as ammo against our elected officials.  This speaks to a larger issue that I have been preaching about for years.  A Democratic Republic like the United States, starts with the people.  Let me repeat that...A DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC LIKE THE UNITED STATES, STARTS WITH THE PEOPLE.  The public hates politics and politicians.  Who elects them to office?  We do.  Do you know who your representative is?  Have you ever written your representative a letter?  Have you called him/her?  Have you visited their office or attended a town hall meeting?  More than likely, you haven't, but the public then wonders why the political atmosphere is where it is.  The answer...  LOOK IN THE MIRROR.  The apathy people have towards politicians, is symptomatic of slothful civic participation.  As a result, people lash out like petulant children, who if they only cleaned their rooms, wouldn't be on restriction.  Do your job as citizens.  Engage in civic activities that those same soldiers you show so much respect for, are willing to die for.  Learn how to drive the car that is politics, and keep your hands on the wheel.  Stop looking to blame everything on the President, and on Congress.  From time to time, measure your patriotism and respect towards government institutions.  Just because you have a "Don't Tread On Me" license plate does not make you a patriot.  Wearing a flag pin on your lapel does not make you a patriot.  President Obama, at the end of the day, is a human being...he is prone to mistakes, just like you.  Instead of attacking him, let's forgive him, move on to more substantive issues that face the nation, pray for our soldiers, and why you're at it...GO GET A LATTE.

That's the MARC UP!!!  Meeting adjourned.  

We Have A Long Way To Go....

  

Just as the Donald Sterling fiasco has simmered down, a new racial incident has come to light.  Popular singer and resident jackass, Justin Bieber, who is not a stranger to trouble and/or controversy, is back in the news.  This time for making ugly racial comments several years ago.  TMZ.Com was able to obtain a video, of a then 14 year old Bieber repeatedly saying the word "nigger".  Apparently, he was doing a "bit", singing his hit song, "One Less Lonely Girl".  In the video clip he sings, "There'll be one less lonely nigger...", and to add the proverbial "cherry on top", he adds, "If I kill you, I'll be part of the KKK."  To see the entire video clip, click on this link:  CLICK HERE.

I know that I am going to hear the familiar arguments and/or excuses regarding this incident.  Such as:  (1) This was six years ago...why are we bringing this up now?  (2) Again...why is it OK for African Americans to say "nigger" and white people cannot?  Or (3) Privacy Issues/Freedom of Speech...BLAH-BLAH-BLAH.  To answer Questions #2 and #3, I would have to write an entire new blog post addressing those questions, which I won't do.  To answer Question #1, I believe that people are bringing it up again, because this was not to be the last incident of him using the word "nigger".  According to CNN.Com, a year later, he was caught on tape asking "Why are black people afraid of chain saws?", for which he answered, "Run Nigger, Nigger, Nigger, Nigger...", which is supposed to simulate the sound of a chain saw.

I could go off on some militant rant, where I rail against Justin Bieber, but that is low hanging fruit.  This blog post is to address the institutional racism that is still ever present in American Society.  Despite progress insofar as the advancement of African Americans in American Society, and the cultivation of positive relationships among different races and ethnic groups, statements made by Donald Sterling, and Justin Bieber, or incidents such as the Trayvon Martin murder (Yes...I said "murder") illustrate one thing....WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO!!!

African Americans, after almost 400 years in this country, are mainstreaming more into the whole of American Society more than ever before.  Oprah Winfrey is revered among people of all races.  There are African American CEO's of Fortune 500 Companies.  The most famous athletes in the world, arguably, are African Americans.  An African American was elected to the Office of President of the United States.  With all of these accomplishments, many feel that racism is over, or that we live in a "Post-Racial Society".  Nothing can be farther from the truth.  In 2013, Oprah Winfrey was attacked by Conservative Nut Job/Circus Ring Leader, Rush Limbaugh, in response to Oprah making honest, yet non-threatening comments about racism in America (CLICK HERE to read the article).  Regarding African American CEO's of Fortune 500 companies, currently there are only six African American CEO's of Fortune 500 (1.2%) Companies (CLICK HERE to read the article).  It is great that many of the most famous athletes in the world are African Americans, but African American ownership is a rare breed.  In the National Basketball Association (NBA), out of 30 teams, there is only one majority African American owner, in a league in which 77-78% of the players are African American.  In the National Football League (NFL), 66% of the players are African American, yet there are NO African American majority owners.  And yes...we have an African American President, although it only took 219 years and 42 Presidents for that to occur, but whose counting.  Further, while Candidate Barack Obama was running for the presidency, he was placed under Secret Service protection earlier than any other presidential candidate in history, due to violent threats, because of his race (Jesse Jackson, while running for the presidency, also received early Secret Service protection, for the same reason).  The historic election of President Barack Obama, which provided the United States an opportunity to show the best of what this country could offer, brought out the ugliness that was bubbling under the surface.  According to the Southern Poverty Legal Center, a renowned organization which tracks hate groups across the United States, reported that the "...number of 'Patriot' groups, including armed militias, skyrocketed following the election of President in 2008-rising 813%, from 149 groups in 2008 to an all-time high of 1,360 in 2012.  The number fell to 1,096 in 2013."

I know for those who disagree with my assessment of race relations in America, they will think or I will hear the familiar, yet sad counterpoints.  Counterpoints such as:  (1) "Can THEY get over this?"  (2) "He only supports President Obama because he is African American?"  And my personal favorite, (3) "He is playing the race card?"  Let me address the last point.  The "Race Card"-CARD, is the counterpoint that always makes me laugh.  It is a clear example of "White Conservative Guilt", a level of guilt which presents itself by anger, excuses, and hyper-defense.  I will acknowledge that there are some within the African American community who use racism as a way to advance their agenda(s).  It is something that I despise, because it trivializes the  legitimate struggle for racial equality.  But the majority of African Americans are not interested in playing cards, certainly the so-called "race card".  Let's just say that this "race card" does exist, and that African Americans are willing to throw it anytime we feel that racism is the issue. African Americans can throw all of the so-called cards we want, but it doesn't matter, because the institutional deck has been set, and the house always wins.  This so-called "card" is meaningless in a society where the socio-political and economic landscape is controlled by White Americans (LET'S BE CLEAR!!!)  African Americans did not fight and die for equality, simply to play a card.  We fought for equality.  We fought to be in the game.  We fought to make sure the deck was not set, to make sure that the "pit bosses" were not fixing the game. African Americans want the opportunity to own their own metaphoric asinos, right along with White Americans and other racial groups.  The "race card" defense mechanism is as damaging to White Americans as the improper charges of racism made by some Africans Americans.  For decades, and even centuries, African Americans were told to "stand down"...to "shut up".  What some may consider playing the race card, are African Americans simply saying, and will continue to say...NO MORE!!!

In fact, many in the African American Community want our White brothers and sisters to be as pissed off as we are about the racial climate that still exists in this country.  We would rather have White Americans with us, instead of making charges of racism against the White Community.  Unfortunately, some in the White Community do not have the courage to stand up to racism, because of fears of being thought of or labeled as a "traitor" (at worse) or a "liberal" (at best).  Some are fearful that relationships could be severed among friends and family members if they choose to stand up for an issue as polarizing as racism and for a righteous cause such as equality (Especially with regards to racism against African Americans).  We know that there were many White Americans during the Civil Rights Movement who had the courage to stand with us.  They took beatings, they faced isolation from their friends and family, and some even died for the movement.  We need that level of commitment today, although we don't necessarily ask our White brothers and sisters to die on our behalf, we simply ask them to truly make an attempt to understand.  To show some empathy, and to realize what Dr. King said, when he said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."  Listening to rap music, liking soul food, or having some "black friends" is not sufficient.  There are people who love Mexican food, yet hate the "wetbacks" who cook the food, and feel that they are responsible for taking all of the food jobs in the country (That's another conversation for another day).  As Justin Bieber is realizing, singing his form of R&B music, having rappers collaborate on his songs, wearing "urban clothing", and coming under the mentorship of Usher, doesn't mean squat, if you embrace attitudes and use words that undermine the very people (and culture) who have helped you in your rise to fame.  America has to understand, that we still have a long way to go in addressing and coming to grips with racism.  How?  By talking to each other, instead of talking about each other.  To educate each other without being so offended, that we don't listen to each other.  We need to start developing a level of racial and cultural empathy that creates a level of racial integrity in all of us, where we can be friends in public, and not call each other "nigger" or "cracker" in private.

Again, progress has been made, but the Donald Sterlings, Justin Biebers, and George Zimmermans of the world serve as reminders that we have a long road ahead of us.  As Americans, we will have to decide whether that road will be a bumpy one, or a paved one.

And that's THE MARC-UP!!!  Meeting adjourned.

Restaurant Review-THE WINGSTOP

RESTAURANT REVIEW-THE WINGSTOP

Wings, Wings and Wings...my favorite part of the chicken and turkey.  A once trash-part of the chicken, in recent decades, wings have become increasingly popular.  You can't go to a restaurant, bar, or pub without having wings as part of the menu.  At a family function, a super bowl party, or a church event, wings will be present.  They are small, which makes them great finger food.  Because they are small, you can make a bunch of them, and they are relatively cheap.  Although due to their popularity, the price of a pack of wings at the grocery store have gone up.  That hasn't stopped Americans from eating bucket loads of wings.  According to the National Chicken Council (I'm not making that up), during the most recent Super Bowl, Americans consumed over 1.25 BILLION chicken wings.  300 Million Americans...1.25 Billion Wings...YOU DO THE MATH!!!

In the last few years, wing-centric restaurants have started to pop up all over the country.  In the Loudoun County, the two most popular wing-centric restaurants are Buffalo Wing Factory, a local chain.  The other is Buffalo Wild Wings, which is a popular national chain.  Most wing restaurants (And restaurants that serve wings) have the same cliche' variety of wings.  They have Buffalo Wings, they have an Asian-inspired wing, flavored with a typically gloppy teriyaki sauce.  And they always have gimmicky spicy wings that are so incredibly hot, that you have to sign a waiver explaining that you may get stomach and intestinal cancer if you eat the "NUCLEAR", "ATOMIC", or whatever crazy name they decide to give them.  All served with your choice of blue cheese sauce, ranch sauce, and perhaps their own trademarked sauce. You go to one wing joint, you have gone to them all.

There is a new wing joint in town called the Wingstop.  They are a national chain, headquartered in Texas, and they have locations in 34 states and Mexico.  Being that it is a national chain, again, I am hesitant (I tend to stay away from most chain restaurants).  But after a friend of mine highly recommended the place, I told him that I would give it a try.  Checked out the menu online, and again...it had the typical cliche' wing-joint menu.  Although it may be cliche', perhaps this place may be better than the others.  I stopped into the Sterling (Virginia) location, which is tucked into a small strip mall, during the lunch hour.  I ordered the "6 Wing Combo".  You get six wings, fries and a coke for a little over $8.00.  I ordered three Garlic-Parmesan flavored wings, and three "Louisiana Rub"-spiced wings to go.  I went to a nearby parking lot to eat my lunch (I wanted to listen to sports radio speculate about why Jameis Winston stole crab legs.  Hilarious story, but I digress).  I started in on the fries, which were quite good.  The seasoning was good, although I detected sugar in their spice blend, which threw me off a bit.  I don't want a sugary-spiced fry, but they tasty enough.  Most of the fries were fried properly, while a few weren't, but for the most I give their fries a good grade.  As for the wings, the Louisiana Rub wings were excellent.  The spice blend was balanced, and provided a warm heat as you ate them.  As for the Garlic-Parm wings, they could have been seasoned a little more.  The garlic flavor was faint for my taste.  When you put something on the menu that says "garlic", I want to taste garlic.  I want to vampires to flea in agony because there is so much garlic in the wings.  The addition of the parmesan on the wing, gave the wing an "off-putting" smell, which would indicate they used a low quality parmesan cheese.  The addition of fresh herbs to the wing, could have made these wings even better.

I wish wing joints would become more creative.  That being said, the Louisina Rub wings and the fries were good.  I won't get the Garlic-Parm wings again.  I plan on visiting again, and trying more flavors.  Although I wouldn't walk over broken glass to stop at the Wingstop, if you are hungry, and want something relatively cheap and tasty, check this place out and see how you like it.  The Wingstop gets TWO WINGS OUT OF FOUR.

Click on this LINK for more information about the Wingstop.

Meeting Ajourned...and that's the MARC-UP

POLITICAL COMMENTARY

POLITICAL COMMENTARY-WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS?  TAKE A LOOK IN THE MIRROR

"The best argument against Democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter"-Sir Winston Churchill

When there is a problem with this government....whenever the citizenry of this country feels that they are left out of the process, they like to remind their elected officials that the Unites States is a democracy.  Unfortunately they would be incorrect.  The word "democracy" comes from the Greek word "Demokratia".  "Demos" means "people" and "Kratia" means "power".  This refers to the direct democracies of Ancient Greek city-states where ANY citizen who wanted to be heard could be heard, and could fully participate in the operations of government.  The principles behind this form of governing were laudable, but the execution of this form of governance proved to be ineffective.  Entire city-states of people debating issues, with little organization, and most citizens not having a grasp of the issues.  These direct democracies became "bitch-fests" for those who were charismatic, manipulative and were able to inflame the passions of people for political advantage.  A more effective form of government had to be created using Democratic principles, yet operating in an organized and more streamlined fashion.  This form of government is known as a "Representative Democracy"....or commonly referred to as a Republic.  The United States is a Democratic Republic, where the power is vested in the people, but laws are made by persons that citizens elect to represent their interests.  There is one main problem with Republics.  A Republic requires its citizens to be well-informed about issues (community and nationwide), and have the ability to properly "vett" candidates for public office who have the intelligence, ability and integrity to serve them.  Republics are successful, when they have a citizenry that constantly petitions their elected officials, and holding them accountable during their time in office.  You all are probably asking yourselves, "Why is he giving us a political science lesson on democracy?".  I'm getting to that. 

Like everyone else, I have an opinion about the government shutdown.  It is an awful situation which seriously affects the daily lives of government workers, impedes the economy of the United States, hurts the security of this country and sullies the reputation of the United States.  I have friends of mine who have been furloughed because of this mess.  I'm not going to get into the politics behind the budget, because that is not the subject of this blog post.  I won't get into a debate about the Affordable Care Act either.  I will say that certain Members of Congress are going about their business the wrong way, and they ought to be ashamed of how they are representing themselves, their constituents, and the country at large.  On the issue of the budget, the debt ceiling, or any number of important issues, Members of Congress continue to make asses out of themselves, while the country has to suffer for it.

With all of that said, in the past few days, weeks, months and years, I have read the Facebook posts of friends and family frustrated by any number of issues, in addition to the budget and subsequent shutdown of the federal government.  Friends and family constantly talk about how bad "the system" is, and how bad politicians are.  After awhile, I get frustrated by the constant self-righteous moaning and groaning of an electorate that believes civic participation begins and ends on Election Day.  The "Just Enough" Paradigm of Civic Participation has contributed greatly to the malfunction, dysfunction and decline of the American Political System.  If the American People want to know what's wrong with politics today, they need to take a long look in the mirror.  I am not outright blaming the citizens of this country for the current budget crisis.  However, if the American People were more proactive and attentive, instead of being reactive and disinterested, then perhaps we would have a well informed electorate who would know the issues, elect the right people to represent them, and to care enough to make sure that elected official do their damn job.  In the Bible, specifically in the 2nd chapter of James, it says "Faith without works is dead."  As for the American People, outrage without action contributes to an ineffective government.  Yelling, ranting, posting ignorant status updates, will not change the way Washington works, and is not a substitute for civic participation.  Calling someone a "conservative" or a "liberal" as if they are epithets, doesn't inspire constructive dialogue.  Like any Democratic Republic, politicians are merely a reflection of the people they represent.  If you have dysfunctional politicians, more than likely, you have a dysfunctional electorate.  If you still don't understand, let me provide you with an example.

A 25-year old kid is looking to buy his first new car.  He was just hired to be a courier for a delivery company.  Buying the right car and maintaining the car is key to his employment, in addition to driving it for personal use.  First, he must do research on the car he wants to buy.  He asks himself some questions:  What's the price of the vehicle?  Do I want a car or a SUV?  What kind of gas mileage does this vehicle get?  Does it have a reputation for being reliable?  Will this vehicle make my insurance go through the proverbial roof?  Will the vehicle be able to accomodate the items that I will be delivering?  He is what is known as an "informed consumer".  He then goes through the process of buying the vehicle.  Then comes the matter of maintenance.  He has to change his oil every 3,000 miles, or every 3 months.  He has to make sure that his brakes work properly, and has sufficient brake fluid.  He has to make sure that his wheels are aligned.  The tires on the car have to be the right size, the tread can't be worn, and they have to have the right amount of air in them.  This is called "preventive maintenance".  By consistently maintaining his car (In a timely manner), he will save money, he won't be stressed out, and because he is not taking his car to the mechanic all the time, he will not miss time at his job.  He treats his car well, thus the car treats him well.  Let's take another 25-year old kid, who was also hired to work as a courier for the same delivery company.  He is also looking to buy his first new car.  Like his co-worker, buying the right car and maintaining his car is key to his employment, in addition to driving it for personal use.  Unlike his co-worker, this young man is more concerned about the aesthetics of the vehicle, as oppose to it's cost, reliability, gas mileage, or the reputation of the vehicle.  He wants an expensive sports car that has a shaky reputation and costs a fortune to maintain.  His insurance will be sky-high, the gas mileage is crappy, and the vehicle will not have the room to transport the items that he is paid to deliver.  All he is concerned about is how good the sound system is, and if the vehicle has chrome rims on it.  To hell with the fact that Consumer Reports gave this vehicle a failing grade.  Despite all of the information provided, he goes on and overpays for this expensive "statement" car.  He doesn't take the time or money to maintain it.  He doesn't take it to get cleaned.  The front end is misaligned, which takes a wear and tear on his tires.  He gets the oil changed every now and then, thus placing pressure on the transmission to do more than what is required.  His car is constantly in the shop, and he is paying more in repair costs than he should.  He is constantly calling his boss, requesting time off, due to problems with his vehicle.  Lastly, his car note and insurance premiums are ridiculously high, and because of the high performance-nature of the car, he has to fuel his car with premium gas, which costs him $250 a month.  He didn't rule the car, the car ruled him.  He eventually lost his job, is in debt, and can't go to job interviews because his car remains in the shop.  If he was proactive, instead of reactive, he would have a better quality of life.  

Most Americans, with regards to civic participation, are like the latter car owner.  They don't do their research on the issues.  The electorate tend not to "vett" candidates who are running for elected office, instead voting the party line.  Most people are attracted to the unqualified, unintelligent, communication-deficient, ideological candidate, instead of the sensible, intelligent, practical candidate, who happens to be an effective communicator.  Because people are too lazy to do their own research, they rely on Fox News and MSNBC, and hyper-partisan websites to provide them with sometimes questionable information that play to their ideological leanings.  They don't attend town hall meetings, call their Members of Congress, and/or write their elected officials.  They just vote on Election Day, go home to scratch their collective asses while watching "American Idol", and the only interaction they have with the government after the election(s) is getting their drivers license at the DMV or filing their federal income tax with the IRS.  Government does not operate on remote control.  Government requires a citizenry that cares enough about the government to put the right people in charge to run it.  Citizens need to be proactive and maintain the quality of their government by monitoring their public officials, reading the party platforms, tracking legislation, attending meetings and making your voice heard.  It doesn't take a lot of time to do these things.  It is your duty as an American Citizen to take "intellectual umbrage" with the government.  The Greek philosopher, Plato once said that "One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors."  If Americans continue to be slothful in their approach to politics, then they are ensuring that inferior politicians will govern them with impunity, take them down the road of malfunction and dysfunction, and cause political paralysis.

We call politicians "idiots", "assholes" or worse.  Are they?  Maybe!!! Americans are demanding that Members of Congress not take salary during the shutdown.  Will that help Americans feel good?  Will it change the American Political Landscape  No, to both questions (And by the way, regardless of how people feel about Congress, Members of Congress are essential employees, for the mere fact that Congress is essential to the operation of the Federal Government)!!!  Should Americans be considered "idiots" and "assholes" because they take an inactive role in their government's activities?  Should Americans have to forgo their salaries, because they are bad citizens?  If Members of Congress and their staffers were polled, I wonder what the approval rating would be of the American Public?

I have heard from a few people that because of Congressional Ineffectiveness, Members of Congress should be term-limited.  I always laugh when the issue of term limits come up.  When someone mentions that to me, I give the same answer, "WE HAVE TERM LIMITS...THEY ARE CALLED ELECTIONS".  The conspiracy theorists will say "The fix is in...elections are rigged".  The 2010 mid-term Congressional Elections prove that theory wrong, when the Republicans obtained control of the U.S. House of Representatives.  Many Democratic Staffers lost their jobs because of that election, including myself.  If you know of an ineffective elected official, you organize, you volunteer, you donate to a responsible candidate who can replace that official.  A restaurant will continue to serve the same crappy food, with the same level of crappy service until enough patrons demand change.  You wouldn't ask a restaurant to stay open only for a few years, because a certain number of restaurants around the neighborhood are culinary f**k-ups.  Get off of your ass and get involved.  Term Limits are for the lazy and weak, who can't take enough time from their so-called busy lives and perform a duty that people have died for.

Some people genuinely do not know where to go to obtain information.  Some people do not know what information is reliable.  If anyone does not know what to do, please contact me.  I can direct you to proper sources, explain the legislative process, how to gauge media information and instruct you how to petition your elected officials.  If you don't know who your elected officials are, which a great many people don't, then I can get that information for you.  A smart and active electorate can be creators of positive change in this country.  We can avoid situations like the government shutdown, simply by voting in the right people, and being as smart, if not smarter than those who we chose to represent us.  Stop falling for propaganda...ignore Rush, ignore Rachel, and search your own hearts as to who and what you are, and what issues you support and don't support.  Just because your father was a Republican, doesn't mean you have to be.  But again, the most important thing is to stay informed, maintain and act.   

AND THAT IS THE MARC-UP!!!