Summations Only

Has it already been commented on in this thread how sad it is that much of the political discussion is not about the impact of proposed policy on the nation and the world, but of the distortions from each side on the electorate?--Percy

You're saying that political debate seeks a level appropriate to the electorate, and I agree, but in my mind anyone descending to this level doesn't deserve the job. What I find shocking is the lack of outrage at, for example, Romney's distortion ads using Obama's "You didn't build that" sound bite. That's not framing the issue to your own advantage - that's lying.Fans of old movies might remember the scene in Casablanca where Captain Renault closes Rick's casino announcing, "I'm shocked, shocked to find that gambling is going on in here!" I'm essentially doing the same thing: "I'm shocked, shocked to find that political-style campaigning is going on in here." Call me naive, but it looks likely I'll sit out another presidential election. Participating by voting would make be feel slimy.--Percy

You left out the important part: I'm only sitting out the presidential election. If I removed myself from the voters list I couldn't vote in any election.--Percy

Seriously? That doesn't even make sense. Do you even know anyone who believes that? I don't normally look on Dr Adequate's more denigrating posts with any favor, but his Message 229 seems appropriate in this case.If Obama really meant what the Romney ad has him saying, why did they have to edit the speech? Could it be because they couldn't find Obama actually saying what they want people to think he believes?Anyway, if what was clear to everyone else wasn't clear to you, all Obama was saying in that part of his speech is that government plays an important role in every business success by providing necessary infrastructure, like bridges, roads, and essential services like water, sewer, firefighting, police, regulatory enforcement, etc. He was trying to make the point that it isn't just business alone that contributes to the success of America. It's a partnership between business and government.--Percy

Why are all the wingnuts members of the same party?--Percy