My Plan to Unite Americans
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AMERICANS
I published a Hub entitled Partition America which received mostly excellent reviews and enjoyed wide readership. The only naysayers were Liberals who felt that instead of Partition, a way should be sought where Americans can stop squabbling and unite behind a common agenda. I would love to be a uniter—not a divider. Therefore, I have a plan to do just that: Unite Americans.
ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION
To solve the immigration problem, I propose that we make it law that every illegal in this country must come in and register with the government—with a promise of no deportations for anyone who has employment and no criminal record. Issue them a three-year work visa. Anyone who does not show up to register or come back for an interview after the three-year visa expires, is to be deported immediately. If they keep employment for three years straight, paying taxes and FICA, without committing a crime; start them on the naturalization process to become American citizens, providing their employer is willing to sponsor them (or if they are self-employed and have steadily paid self-employment taxes). If they don't want to become a citizen but are employed, they may receive another three-year visa instead. Anyone convicted of a felony will have their visa revoked and be deported after their sentence if fulfilled. Eliminate the automatic citizenship by birthright, which is very rare in the world anyway.
HEALTH CARE SOLUTION
To solve the healthcare crisis, I propose that we overhaul
the system. My plan starts with tort
reform, to limit settlements in medical malpractice claims to $250,000—saving
at least $25,000,000,000 per year and thus lowering the cost of health
care. We should open up competition
among health care insurance companies to where they compete for customers
nationwide. Competition always drives
down prices. Insurance should be
decoupled from employment. We should buy
health insurance individually the way we buy all other insurance. This will spur employment by removing the
burden of this cost from employers who must offer the exact same plan to
everyone. This industry should be
deregulated so that dozens of health insurance companies can offer many more
insurance plans for people—freedom of choice. If I want no insurance, because I do not
believe in traditional medicine, or don't believe I am going to get sick, I
should have that right. If I want an
inexpensive policy that only covers serious illness or accidental injury, I
should have that right. If I want a full
boat policy that covers dental, eyewear, holistic medicine, chiropractors,
Viagra, plastic surgery, every trip I make to a doctor or even coverage for my
pets, I should have the right to buy that.
I would ban insurance companies from investigating existing conditions,
only allowing the charging of any rate they want to charge—against stiff
competition—to vary by age (as life insurance does). The rate you pay when you sign up should
remain the same until you reach retirement age. Regarding the 7 million people who cannot
get coverage now, surely we can expand Medicaid to get them in that
program. Speaking of which, I would turn
over billing of Medicare and Medicaid to Visa/MasterCard—savings
$90,000,000,000 per year (by reducing fraud). Lastly, I would stop health care providers from reporting their deadbeats to the credit bureau. Getting unexpectedly sick or hurt is not the same as signing a contract to borrow money, and it shouldn't ruin one's credit when disaster strikes. I don't think it helps collect the funds anyway. All it does is hurt people.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS
I propose that the taxpayers no longer provide funds to any community organization of any stripe. If what they are doing is worthwhile, let them find private funding for their activities. This system is rife with fraud and exists mostly to game the taxpayers. 99% of them are partisan to one political party and it is egregious for people of both parties to fund them with the sweat of their brows.
I propose that we defund the National Endowment for the Arts. Any art that people want to see they will pay to see; or private endowments will be made because someone deems the art important enough to fund it for all. The government has no business deciding the public value between my art and your art.
CZARS, UNIONS & STIMULUS MONEY
I propose the government sell Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, thereby getting out of the mortgage business. I propose that unionization efforts continue to only use the secret ballot. I propose that all Czars be fully vetted and approved by the United States Senate, as are other political appointees. I propose that all stimulus money be accounted for and transparently distributed, with a web site where any citizen can view where their tax dollars have gone. Further, any money dispensed must be voted on by Congress. Let's eliminate "pork" spending, as well, by making Congress vote on any line of a bill that includes tax monies.
UNEMPLOYMENT & ECONOMIC DEPRESSION
I propose that we have a moratorium on corporate income tax for three years. This will end the depression (and unemployment) by a tremendous influx of capital investment in business. We should remember that corporate profits are taxed twice. After the profits are distributed the individuals must pay taxes on the same money again. We should also remember the stake in American companies by regular folks through their 401K plans. I predict this plan will lift the values of our 401Ks tremendously and ameliorate the Social Security crisis.
EDUCATION
I propose we allow parents to send their children to any accredited school they see fit with vouchers. If it costs $7500 of taxpayer money per year to educate a child, a taxpayer should have the right to send their child to the government run schools—or a Christian, or Jewish, or secular private school of their choice. This way, Conservatives can stop bellyaching about the homosexual public school agenda; the Darwinism; the religion of Secular Humanism; the religious songs about our president; the indoctrination of our children into ideas they staunchly oppose (while using their money to do it). Conservatives can have the same amount of funds to send their child for the type of education they want their children to have—and Liberals can implement any agenda they want in the public schools because there will be no one left who cares to oppose them.
ABORTION
Lastly, I turn to abortion. It's hard to find common ground on this one. The trend is not good for Pro-Abortion folks. The last poll shows Pro-Life up by 52% to 41%. I have a solution that will stop the fighting over it. We pass a Constitutional Amendment repealing Roe v Wade, devolving the abortion question to States Rights. Therefore, by voter referendum or by state legislatures, each state can have their own abortion laws, appropriate to the kind of people (the majority anyway) who live there. In some states it may be banned altogether, in others paid for by state funds, in others somewhere in between regarding parental notification, health care provider conscience clauses, methods used, live birth problems, trimester restrictions, etc. With this, I propose the Federal Government no longer support Planned Parenthood with taxpayer funds, but individual states may, and private donors, of course, may.
AMERICANS
I hope this plan can be agreed to by the vast majority of Americans, thereby united us, not dividing us.
I previously published Hubs about:
How the Mortgage Crisis Caused the Worldwide Financial Meltdown
An Explanation of what a Conservative is
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Comments
James I fully support your plan. I would add a few amandments.
1. After it initial 3 year moratoriam on corporate income taxes if it performs as I believe it will it should be made permanant. Since any fool knows corporations never pay taxes their customers end up paying them due to increased prices or if the corporation is unable to pass on the cost they are forced out of business.
2. Ditto your solution for community organizations to organized lobbiest. Let's get all big money out of politics.
Bravo James. This would be the best presidential platform ever but I'm afraid it contains too much common sense for the current administration (and those before it). Perhaps we'll get there eventually. I think you're only missing one section called: 'The Federal Reserve'
We'd be better off without it.
Scott.Life— YOU are my first visitor! Thank you for coming.
And I might add: who's printing it and how much of it! :)
I appreciate your thoughtful comments.
Tom Whitworth— I agree. If the "no corporate tax" plan is working, it should be extended. In a global community, multinational corporations can headquarter anywhere. If it made sense, most would headquarter here.
I agree, too, about lobbying. I'm not sure that lobbying should not be banned altogether.
Thank you for your insights, Tom.
amandakjones— You are right. I did miss that (the Federal Reserve). I agree: we get rid of that, too. :)
Thank you for coming by and leaving your supportive words.
Well, I don't know the answers, either. But I do like most of what you said. Funny thing about this being a free country is that people are never going to agree. If you have the right to voice an opinion and you are a contrary person, your opinion still counts.
As far as the medical thing goes, I think doctors should be limited as to how much they charge, no matter how much of a specialist they are. I have seen at least one specialist who charges insane prices (HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS ON THE FIRST VISIT). I was not able to go there and am trying to have the problem handled through a general practitioner. And doctors aren't perfect. They call it "Practicing" for a reason, I think...and like a teacher recently said to me, they still call the guy who graduates at the bottom of his class, "Doctor," so the doctors are bound to make mistakes.
And the health insurance thing is a joke. I think doctors and hospitals own the insurance companies. I see that as a conflict of interest. That should be illegal. That's like cows owning the dairy farm.
I have been denied insurance and so has my daughter, due to pre-existing conditions. It's almost as bad as I felt when I tried to join the Catholic church...
And abortion is just another controversial thing no one is ever going to agree on. "Pro-Choice" people have their own opinions, which mostly consist of people who don't want to take on the responsibility of a child, women who "accidentally" got pregnant (HELLO, either get on the pill or put a lighter between your knees and hold it tightly until you are either ready to get pregnant or have protection), and men who don't want to pay child support. I mean, women see it as their body, their right to "choose," but I see it as the baby doesn't get to "choose," and it's their little body being slaughtered. A man was standing on the side of the road today holding up a picture very similar to the one you had published in a previous hub that certain people were insulted by. It is a disgusting and gruesome picture, abortion is. I have children, and although it was not always convenient for me to have them right when they came along, the Lord had this planned for me. So I went with that.
I don't claim to know all of the answers about abortion or anything else, but there is a reason women have depression following having an abortion. But the thing that people don't understand is that people have to look out for each other and take care of each other's needs. I don't agree with Obama and his Socialist ideas. But uniform healthcare provisions is good. People who have been through the Medicaid application process in Florida when they are self-employed or can't get some thing they needed to prove their income or some other information their case was "pended for" understand.
No one can please everyone. I couldn't say that I would do any better as president than you, than my grandfather, than Obama or than Bush, but I would do things my own way, to be sure.
That's America. The "Great American Melting Pot."
Dang. Sorry James. I should have made that a hub...
advisor4qb— Wow! I am impressed by your comment. It is unlike you to have so much to say. Bully for you!
As far as setting doctor's fees: I don't know. Some of the equipment they use is awfully expensive. If malpractice goes down, doctors will charge less AND more young people will want to be doctors. I saw a poll the other day and in it, 44% of all the doctors in the United States said they will retire early if socialized medicine goes through. Our government sets the charge for 700 medical procedures today. Many don't know that but it's true. And it is blamed for the costs in some areas and for unnecessary tests being done. That's another thing that drives up the cost: unneeded tests done to ward off possible malpractice. Some of those tests hurt, too.
I had not ever heard anyone say insurance companies are owned by doctors and hospitals. Insurance companies are publicly traded so you, me, or anybody can be an owner.
I appreciate your comments about abortion. I am pro-choice: if you're not willing to accept the consequences, keep your legs closed. :-) (Not you, of course)
Thank you very much for sharing your wisdom with us here today. I'm glad you did.
advisor4qb— Oh, not at all. It was a refreshing pleasure to see you making such elucidating comments. I'm glad that you did.
Thanks.
James! Are you running for office? ; Anyway, I agree with you on a lot of these points. I'm not going to break down each one of them because you will have many comments to read on this one!!!!! I think the education plan is a good idea! Best, G
Great read once again, James. I like your ideas on immigration, but I don't think they would come, even with the promise of no deportation. Most aliens prefer to remain under the radar - been there (no, I'm not an alien!) I hold steadfast to the idea of building a really high, thick wall along the entire land-border.
Nice plan James. Not that I agree to everything, but definitely makes a lot more sense then what is going on now. :)
Well said, James. Your proposals certainly have merit & are worthy of discussion & further development. I especially liked your approach to the immigration issue. It is a strong & workable idea.
advisor4qb— Now you're back to normal! :-)
Just kidding you. You are welcome.
GPAGE— I am exploring running for office. I would have to fess up to a few things right off the bat before reporters go digging around in my closet. :D
You are always so easy to get along with. Thank you for coming by to visit. I appreciate you.
Lily Rose— Thank you, dear. They like it off the grid, eh? I'm thinking about getting off the grid myself. Unless I run for office. Then I'll smack dab in the grid. I've been in favor of a big wall for years. Not like Stalin's—to keep people in. Like China's—to keep invaders out.
I've said it before. Run for office, Please. I have four questions: l)What would you do about taxes, flat?, fair? etc: 2)How would you feel about implementing a web site for the public to vote on major issues? 3) How would you handle those who do not have insurance and end up in emergency room, will they then be billed? 4) How do you feel about term limits? James, I'm sure we all agree that you could put your talents to good use in the political arena.
Misha— I am pleased as punch to have at least a partial nod in my direction from you, sir. Thank you for reading my Hub and leaving your words on this page.
Ken R. Abell— Thank you, Ken, very much. I think it important that we know who is in the country and where they came from. This would allow us to get a handle on that. I appreciate your support, brother.
jiberish— I am thinking about it, for real. Thank you for your support.
I am in favor of a consumption tax. We need to spur saving. Getting rid of the IRS will save tens of billions we pay to tax lawyers and accountants; and the cost of the IRS itself. We can let the states collect it since they have the apparatus in place already.
I like the web site idea but if you mean binding referendums . . . I do know a lot of older folks who don't use computers and I'd hate to miss their accumulated wisdom. Of course, many of them could vote at someone else's house or at the library—or a polling place.
Thank you for bringing that up. I meant to say that, yes, they'll be billed but my plan will include a new provision that medical charge-offs will no longer be reported to the credit bureau. I'm going to add that right now.
I do like term limits, though as complex as issues are, I do see the advantage in our times to experience in lawmaking, too. I lean toward term limits, so people go right back to private citizenry again.
You ask great questions. I appreciate you coming in, especially as learned and wise as you are about policy. Thank you!
being a free country is that people are never going to agree.
june688— Yes, you are right. I am hopeful my plan is a compromise between the two sides that disagree. Thank you for reading and posting your comment.
Good ideas all. The immigration thing is one of my 'hot buttons'. I'd add that any illegal here who has a serious illness needs to be deported. Cruel? Nope, they probably brough it in with them. See reports on the tuburculosis rate in relatively unprotected Texas. Since the late 90's, possibly earlier, the TB rate in the US has skyrocketed. We've no need for that here.
You've commented a number of times on your budding desire to run for office....Truly? Though I'd vote for you if able, my most humble recommendation is that you don't run for any public office. Heck, people who know how to use the pen as you do can accomplish much more good outside of a hopelessly corrupt government than inside!
James for President 2012.
We need to get our arms around the medical lawsuits, but I do know if the $250,000 limit is the answer. We need to have the lawsuits to get rid of the quacks to make them un-insurable so they quit practice, but there are so many lawsuits that are unwarranted. One would think that better health care should lower lawsuits, too.
Keep on Hubbing!
I agree with Hxprof.
In addition, the hub is pure common sense. Maybe the Leftists should be made to take "Common Sense 101".
I don't know that I would trust people voting online. All someone would have to do is get one of those IP address scramblers and their vote could count a LOT more than once....
PS Run for an office I can vote for on MY side of the state! You'll have one vote guaranteed!
Hxprof— Thank you, professor. I did forget to add that regarding immigration we also need to block off the border to further illegals. I would issue plenty of work visas for those who have jobs waiting for them, but not if they have a contagious disease, obviously.
I appreciate your complimentary commentary. I am considering running, but you may be right about writing instead.
eovery— At least I know I have two votes! :)
I thought quacks are weeded out by the Medical Review Board but I cannot say I know much about how that works. Maybe $500,000?
Thank you for coming and offering your support. I do appreciate it.
Tina Irene— Common Sense 101—I love it! It is always a pleasure to from you, my learned friend. Thank you.
advisor4qb— On line voting would be tricky. Is Grayson your representative, too? Probably not. Thank you for your encouragement. Now I have 4 votes!
very smart and I agree all the way! Thank you for writing this and sharing it with us!
Great hub James, "leftist" and "liberal" insults aside. I think those little digs at the other side is more to blame for us being divided than it's given credit for. Since I'm on this subject, who decided that I was a "liberal" anyway? Because I don't claim "conservative", I'm labeled a "liberal"? What is that about? The first step to "unite" us, is to remove the labels. When you give teams a name, they compete. If we're all Americans, we're on the same side. If we're all people, we're on the same side. If we're liberals and conservatives - we're divided. If we're "leftists" and "rightists" we're opposites. That would be the issue I'd take up with the education system. It's an underhanded lean at segregating the schools by conservatives and liberals, or Republicans and Democrats, or leftist and rightist, or whatever you label me versus whatever I label you. What happens in that system? We learn to stay separate. We are taught that our way is better than your way, and we remain as is.
Don't get me wrong, competition is healthy - just in regards to uniting versus dividing, I think labels and separating the education system into those labels is a step backwards.
I think the economy approach needs a little more development, and I have rebellious thoughts regarding immigration. That said, I would say that for the most part, considering there is no human I could agree 100% with, I agree with far more of your ideas than there are stances of yours that I oppose. There are few politicians that I can say that about. I'm totally on board with the IRS/Federal Reserve comments as well.
Great hub! This is the first of yours that I've read, thanks to a recommendation from my friend jiberish, and I'll be sure to check out more of your work.
James we definitely live In complex times and have complex Issues to deal with . Abortion will always be a point of contention that I see no common ground between Ideologies .
I have been saying for years that the NEA should have no federal funding whatsoever . Hey I like art too however If It Is so critical then the Hollywood elite and big name Authors should put there money where there mouth Is and fund It themselves ! Starting with Michael Moore since he hates capitalism so much In spite of the fact he has done quite well.
And I definitely like the Idea about the vouchers for children to go to accredited schools Instead of Government run schools because I believe the seed of the problem for the poisonous thinking that has been coming about In the last 40 years starts at our schools and comes to fruition at the University level . In any event James I hope we as a nation can come together because If I see the future looking as grim as It Is we are really gonna need one another ! Another great read James !
atomswifey— Thank you for tuning in! You are welcome. I appreciate your Hubs, too.
T_Augustus— Thank you for starting off with a compliment, sir. Now the "but." :)
I think Independent is a good "label." But no label is even better. I am all for no labels. OK. I'm with you so far. We eliminate labels and we are all Americans. That is a great thought.
The problem with schools, though, is easily identifiable. The doctrines taught there are offensive to many Americans and these doctrines will not change as long as the Teachers Union is in charge. Many Americans want their children to be taught a worldview that includes God, abstinence, and patriotism. The powerful teachers union does not. Look at the results! Kids are dumb—though it is not their fault. Even in DC, the most Liberal community in America, they fight for vouchers to get their kids away from from this distorted "education."
I am quite pleased that at the end, we agree about far more than we disagree. That is a healthy start. All I want, is for all Americans to be all they can be.
Thank you very much for your commentary. I appreciate your wise words.
tony0724— The killing of unborn babies is the most serious issue facing America, in my view. This is a stain on our national soul.
You are exactly right about the NEA. Let Hollywood fund it. Now that they intend to produce outright propaganda for our president, this is particularly galling.
Isn't it funny that people making tens of millions of dollars per year are lambasting Capitalism!? Are they giving away their fortunes to the poor? NO!
Government run schools, as you say, is a huge problem. Didn't used to be. They desperately some competition—and they may rise again with the right attitude.
Thank you, Tony, for providing the voice of reason.
Hello James. Wow, talking about Congress depate. The plan of illegal immigrants is great. I don't agree with your Health care. I still think the NHS in England is the best because when you down and then mostly health problems start. You then have to pay insurance? Also people get refused insurance. It must be a nightmare. That can't be right. Thanks for your well written and laid hub.
James,this is an excellent hub.Too bad our leaders can`t come up with some workable options. I guess there are too many hands in the kitty. The health care section in particular interested me as I was retired with 2 heart attacks,the second massive. Left with congestive heart failure at 50. I was self employed most of my life and provided employment for a host of employees. Once employing 18 at one time. I paid a modest fortune in taxes,general liability and workers compensation but there just wasn`t enough raising four children to fully cover myself.I ended up losing the whole kit and kaboodle due to sickness. Business, equiptment,all insurances,savings, investments and even my home , thanks to the oldest home mortgage company in America who would not negotiate or refinance. They hammered me on my credit report when I hit my first and only 30 day late mark and no one would touch me after that.Just a down hill slide.That`s a real horror to see a lifetime of work taken away. Not to mention as you say,all this wiped out my credit to where I can`t get a glass of water.And I had a spotless credit report for 17 years.Talk about bitterness I had. Only by Gods grace have we survived , but my golden years have been reduced to tin.
Hello, hello,— I should have mentioned that under my plan, no one would be refused insurance. That said, maybe the NHS is great. That is not what I hear over here. Over here we have a goverment that is corrupt and millions of people abusing and defrauding the system. The government runs Medicare and Medicaid with a budget that was supposed to be $4B a year and is $660B—with $100B a year in fraudulent claims. The thought of turning over a $17T program to these same folks . . . I think it will doom our country. If they run it with the same efficiency, we are talking trillions of dollars wasted every year. Our nation can't survive that for very long.
But, that's just my opinion. You may be right. It might be a better system for health care. It looks as if we are going to find out pretty soon.
Thanks so much for coming by and leaving your insights. I appreciate it.
James, I do love this hub, have sent it off to several people I know that are just so dug in on their political position. When compared to your other hub on partitioning it is a great way to show both sides in a sort of polite and informative juxtaposition. Hope everyone takes the time to read through both. Hats off to you for this :)
Rick Marlow— Thank you, sir. There are plenty of hands in the kitty. No doubt about that. With the size of our government, who can keep track of it all? There are too many places where money can be stolen by a crooked outfit such as ACORN.
I feel for you, brother. You have a sad tale of woe. I am right there with you. I can commiserate and empathize. I had a company for 14 years that went under in February. I cashed out my 401K and my life insurance already, to get by. I had personally guaranteed millions of dollars that will never get paid back. Lawsuits are flying all over right now, and I have to appear for depositions and trials, and produce huge lists of documents.
But, I don't have it as bad as you, my friend, because I haven't had your health problems—which has to be the frightening aspect of your story. What part of the country are you in?
Mardi— I am so pleased that you appreciate my work here. There are plenty of folks dug in, I am one of them. But, I was challenged to come up with a solution instead of just complaining and this was the best I could come up with, considering my little ole worn out brain and all. :)
Thank you for your kind comments.
Hey James,I live in North Carolina. Near The Asheville area. Charlotte is my home town.Brother, I am truly sorry for your problems you`re going through. Believe me, I know the nightmare.I could tell from your hubs and the one in particular that you were a person of affluence and notability.But hard times are no respector of persons are they? As a side note,I love Florida with all my heart. I have lived in Jacksonville,Tampa,Vero Beach, Sanford Orlando and West Palm. I have been unsucessful in getting the wife to move there since my collapse.I yearn to walk those beaches in the evening.Maybe one day.
From over the pond James I have read your hub with interest. You talk a lot of good sense and much of what you propose is probably practical. However change requires people to have the will to change.
Your fine President Lincoln, if I remember correctly, said " you can please some of the people etc etc.
Its sad though. Just like in the UK we get caught up in party politics and forget that really we are all, or should be, on the same side. In your case the side of Americans.
Very interesting points of view Sir! Something to mull over in my mind with the morning cup of Joe.
America has been so divided into group against group, it has become the straining spot of the world instead of the melting pot. A place where people from all walks used to come to be freed from whatever was dogging them in their country that made the US of A look so inviting. They wanted to be called an American.
Now it seems, to me, they want the benefits but none of the burden. They drive around in there cars with bumper sticker flags of their country over the choice of the red, white and blue.
I believe that your dividing hub has more promise.
I don't believe that unity will be seen again in this country short of burning it to the ground and rebuilding it within the founders borders of the Constitution. It would take one large eraser to undo what greed and crooked politicians have done to this country. The crazy rich old white guys who authored the base of this country at their own expense would openly weep at how what they fought for has been twisted and bent. I invite you to learn some history you were never taught about them in any level of learning institutions.
Another great hub, James! Do you think there exists men of this caliber today?
See this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MC37aIRX5c&feature
James, you have the problems by the tail. You would make a good Senator or Congressman. But some of your ideas are not going to work. I agree with Lily Rose who said on Immigration that the illegals would not come in to get legal visas. I'm much harsher on that issue. I say send all the illegals back home, let them come in through the front door if at all. I know, you're probably wondering who would cut your grass. Don't. There are plenty of citizens and young folk who now compete with these companies that hire illegal aliens and compete at a disadvantage because they pay them so little. Abortion going back to where we were is a good idea. As a guiding principle, the best government is that which is closest to the people, not in Washington. Thanks for some fantastic comments also. All of them have great merit. Don White
Rick Marlow— Asheville is mighty nice. I've spent a little time there. You wouldn't know any of the Booher family? They are friends of mine. My sister-in-law and her husband spend their summers in Brevard, which is very nice.
You've been to Sanford!? That's where my business was, at the Orlando/Sanford International Airport.
http://www.avionjetcenter.com/
Florida has been a great place to live up until now. I'm from Michigan, which has just about collapsed. I left there about 18 years ago. You think we have it rough; up there whole towns are in terrible shape, since they drove all the manufacturing out. If you come to Florida, let me know. You're the kind of guy I'd like to have a cup of coffee with.
ethel smith— I am glad you found it interesting. Thank you for your fine comments. Lincoln was right about that. From what I hear, y'all in Merry Olde England may not quite go at it the way we do over here. Things can get a bit heated when one doesn't have that stiff-upper lip. :D
I have liked most of the British leaders. Wasn't a big fan of Neville Chamberlain. Loved Churchill. I have several of his books, my favorite being "History of English Speaking People." I like Blair pretty good. Met the Iron Lady once. This fella you have now, Gordon Brown. I'm not sure what it is, but something seems . . . not quite right about him.
I admire William Wilberforce—now there's a man. William Pitt was pretty good, too. I even admire Gladstone and Disraeli both—obviously for different reasons. Prince Albert: sharp chap. You've had a lot of greats over there. Wellington, Nelson. Who was that guy . . . Becket, Thomas.
50 Caliber— Thank you for your kind compliments. I think the Partition Hub is where we are headed, but I am waiting to see if any Libs would agree to any kind of compromise or if they are bound and determined to enact everything they want and damn the torpedoes. Of which there will be many. :D
When that day comes, the Lefties will rue all the times they badmouthed our military. Because they will call on them to quell the People and I got news for ya: The military is not a leftist organization. :)
My sound is out so I can't hear the video but I bookmarked it and will check it out when I fix my sound. I agree with every word you said and you said it well.
dusanotes— I agree with you. I don't believe the "jobs Americans won't do" slogan. In fact, I know of two meatpacking plants that were raided by ICE. They lost most all their employees and within a month they had filled thousands—thousands—of jobs with Americans, that illegals had.
If they don't come in, then they can be rounded up and deported over the whining by the Left. They will have been given their big chance, which is what they claim they want.
Your last point is so important: government is best the closer to you that it is.
Thank you for your fine comments, Don. I always enjoy it when we engage.
Nothing is impossible James! America MUST be united to be strong again. You are the man with a plan. Should you run for office, i think you can expect your growing hub fans club to be supportive, moi included.
IslandVoice— Thank you so much! I think that makes 7 supporters already. I'm on a roll. Maybe I will.
James - Good Hub. I actually agree with most of your ideas, but as you must know by now I don't really fit into any one box. I think you are particularly accurate about immigration. They should check in at the door just as our ancestors did at Ellis Island. Keep your nose clean, so to speak, and you can stay. It is a problem that is way out of control and costing this country a considerable amount of money. I know for a fact our 1 little Hospital out here on the east end has come close to closing their doors many times because they do not have enough insured "others" to take up the slack of what is spent on illegals that come through the emergency room.
As far as what children are taught in schools, this has been an issue for me in little annoying ways. Like teaching my son Colombus discovered America, I was shocked and offended and they heard from me. Teaching my son that Arizona "Owns" the Grand Canyon. I told them outright "Damn you white folks think you can own anything don't you?" Maybe it was the American Indian in me, but it was the only thing he got wrong on that test and as far as I was concerned he was NOT wrong. I teach my children at home from day 1. I teach them through conversation, books, documentaries, etc..I would NEVER rely on the public school system to teach them right or well enough to survive in this world. They could read, write, tell time and god knows what else at 4 and 5 when they entered pre-k. It is our job as parents to educate our children. I would never rely on so called "experts" to do the job. If there are certain things parents want their children to learn they should be teaching them. Oh, and my kids know about Darwinism and Creationism, they can believe whatever they choose. But they get to choose.
Dear James,
Great hub, terrific solutions. Jiberish is right..run for office!
James,
All great ideas. I would be a little tougher on immigration, but at least your solution has something for everyone. What about foreign policy?
James: Written with clarity and thoughtfulness...I like all your proposals, some more than others, but all in all this is the CHANGE I think most Americans want...Occam's Razor was never more in desperate need than now...Thanks for this, Larry
James what is your position on population?
There are many more people getting ready to retire than there are workers to pay for social security in the future.Speaking of which,those in government who know this namely conservatives want to allow mexican cross our border and become legal citizens who have to pay taxes because they see the need to pay for all those retiring.If it weren't for all those retirees and the low wages they pay immagrants I think conservatives would care less about illegal immagrants.
King James:
In addition to the moratorium on corporate income tax for three years, let's add a three-year moratorium on capital gains as well and watch the economy explode - buoyed by a flood of domestic and foreign investment capital.
And free chocolate for everyone.
Very provocative. It's making me rethink some issues. And you thought I was one of those liberal apologists who never listened to you.
James,
Great Hub, well thought out, wouldn't it be interesting if the boobs in office would apply some of the common sense you demonstrate here for the benefit of the country rather than their own personal and political gain. I'd add a moritorium on foreclosures of primary residences when the issue is related to "forced" unemployment as well. This would go along way to alleviating pressure from the Amercian family.
Nice plan James. Great Hub.
James, I'm as pleased as punch that you are running for office! i am going to look into joining a group that alreaddy exists. i'd just like Christians who can pray for this country to have a voice and pray in unison for the same issues. This was a great hub I agreed on all your idea'a. except we need to close up all our borders.
James...great hub but it makes too much sense. Washington can't handle anything that makes sense...they have to lawyer it up to make it complicated so they can milk the populous cow as they please. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the people ran the country again! Again...great hub! :)
I don’t see how this is supposed to bring anyone together these ideas are recycled. All of them have been proposed by members of the Republican Party. I agree with the opinions on EDUCATION, COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS, and CZARS, UNIONS & STIMULUS MONEY. I would disagree with all the others but its ok to disagree sometimes.(or even all the time) If we really want to come together we don’t have to change our views or try to find common ground, we just have to believe in Democracy (majority rules). If the majority of the country wants to go in a direction I don’t like than I can either deal with it or leave. So if these are your views and you want to run with it then do that but don’t change anything you believe to try to please anyone else because it will be something neither side will be 100% pleased with.
Common ground would be a large healthcare bill spending trillions of tax payer money, not being able to buy insurance across state lines, and has no public option. Some of us don’t want a plan with out a public option and some of us don’t want to have a trillion dollar bill, which would leave us with 100% of Americans Unhappy. I rather have 45% unhappy then 100% unhappy any day. The hell with bipartisanship all I ask is that we respect each other at the end of the day.
Excellent hub, James, and first class ideas. But I don't see them uniting America because too many vested interests have their fingers in the fiscal pie.
The illegal immigrants idea was a bit of an oxymoron, though. Surely, once they're registered they're legal. But I see the point. I was adopted when I was 2, and my natural paternal grandfather was a Bookmaker before gambling was legalised in 1963. He was constantly raided and fined, but when the law changed he was among the first to be granted a Bookmaker's licence, because the police and the courts regarded is record as a sign of backhanded honesty, while many with no criminal record were refused because they hadn't put their hands up and taken their medicine when the fines were being handed out.
Winston Churchill as recently voted the greatest Briton in history - he was half American on his mother's side (and a 'looker' too.)
But back to immigrants. Britain is a mess because we cannot deport many of foreign-born criminals on the grounds that it would breach their human rights. Thus, even the French secret service dubbed London 'Londonistan' and Britain is the harbour of choice for most of the world's terrorists, where they know they can stay safe from extradition (or at least fight it for years on tax-funded legal aid) and also be given a free council house, free health care and state benefits.
Nor am I painting a ludicrous caricature - this is how we treated a bunch of Afghani highjackers when they left prison and how we treat a number of terrorist agitators.
The NHS is a great idea gone wrong. A State-funded emergency service is fine, as is the idea of treating the chronically ill who cannot pay for treatment. But the NHS lost the plot years ago and seems to look for patients everywhere.
Sex change operation? - Certainly - we'll pay for that.
Reverse sex change? Oops sorry - we'll pay for that too.
Clean needles to inject your heroin? - why not. It would be rude to expect you to pay
Among the many ludicrous examples of waste I witnessed as a staff nurse was the family that complained that their elderly father was being discharged home without any food.
They expected the Ward to send him home with bread and milk. What they did not consider was that since they were taking him home, they might like to provide it.
And you should hear the abuse hurled at Accident & Emergency staff if they don't agree to pay for the taxi fare home for drunks that were dragged in, and who didn't seem too short of drink money before they fell in the gutter.
Indeed, there was one guy who used to turn up at Glasgow Royal Infirmary's A&E regularly because the department would pay for his train fare or even a taxi home which was a considerable distance away, which meant that the money saved could be squandered.
James my friend, Tis your wisdom and common sense that we need in Washington! You have my vote! Now when can I expect to see your name on a ballot? :) I believe you could make a difference!
James,
I wholeheartedly agree with your immigration plan. Felons be gone. Hard working folks trying to get ahead, come in and help out. I have no problem with registration either, and remember I am a liberal. Lets get this started. Perhaps our two sides can come together and push people towards this reasonable solution.
I agree with more, disagree with more (abortion and healthcare, etc) but I do not want to rail against your ideas here. I applaud the ideas. I applaud the respectful way you presented your ideas. Sure, I disagree, and we would debate, but perhsps some common ground could be found.
Now only if that would happen in Washington. Conservative with real ideas. Liberals listening and putting value on those where there is agreement or simply a good idea that liberals didn't think of. Respectful debate on differences to find common ground and dare I say, persuade.
Mr Watkins…damn!!...there you go again…first you want to drive a wedge between Americans dividing the country and now you want to unite the country.
I don’t believe you know what you want... oh well…just more fence straddling and hot air escaping I reckon...
Moonchild60— Your commentary is great! I agree with everything you wrote. Thank you very much for posting this here. See! We can all make peace and get along after all. :D
breakfastpop— Another fine American in agreement! Well, this IS encouraging.
I am going to explore running for Congress. We'll see. Thank you very much for your comment.
C. J. Wright— Thank you very much! Foreign Policy? hmmm . . . I didn't cover that, did I. I favor an approach halfway between Bush's and Obama's. :-)
maven101— I apologize for the delay in responding. I have been in Seminar for a couple of days.
Thank you very much, Larry, for your kind comments. And you are most welcome.
someonewhoknows— My position is the government should be strongly supporting intact families with children. For years they have supported single mothers and penalized them financially for staying or getting married. If we don't have 3 children per family our society will die. It requires 2.1 just to remain stagnant. We are having 1.6, which means eventually there will be very few native-born Americans left. We need children. It costs a lot to rear them. We should support this effort through tax incentives for the future health of our nation.
Thank you for asking an excellent question.
ArchDynamics— Always a pleasure to hear from you, my sagacious friend! I agree with your ideas. The soak the rich crowd just doesn't get it. Maybe 15 years ago Clinton put in place a new luxury tax on yachts, to please his constituents by taxing the rich. New yacht sales plummeted. An entire American industry went out of business. They repealed the law, but too late. Now yachts are manufactured mostly all in Europe. The road to ruin is paved with good intentions.
Steve Rensch— :D
Why, thank you, Brother! I appreciate you. I always thought you had an open mind. Thank you for your comment.
readytoescape— Thank you much for your fine remarks. I do appreciate it. I would certainly favor that moratorium. Under this plan, I believe the economy would roar back and after a year people could catch up on their bills and keep their homes.
magdielqr— Welcome to the Hub Pages Community! I thank you very much for your compliment.
linda-patriot— We certainly need border control. The situation now is ridiculous. There are a lot of great groups out there you would enjoy being part of. Thank you for support and encouragement. You are a good woman.
Tom Cornett— Stop making sense! :D
That's a song, isn't it?
The People are supposed to be running the country. I appreciate the accolades, Tom. Thank you for stopping in.
PoliSiMETRODC— Really? I hadn't heard anyone make these proposals. Maybe I heard them in my sleep. Oh well.
I appreciate you mentioning the items you do agree with. That's a nice list and a good start toward common ground. We surely have a right to disagree. Common ground is elusive. I did the best I could. I am willing to listen to any proposal that makes sense. And I agree we should respect each other. Thank you for your comments.
Allan McGregor— It sounds like you've got a mess on your hands over there. Well, we've got a mess here, too. I appreciate you posting your wise comments here. Thank you for visiting my article. :)
Kebennett1— I think I have a dozen votes now! If I run it will be next fall though I'll have to get in the race this spring at the latest. Thank you for your support and encouragement. I always love to hear from you.
bgpappa— Persuasion! A lost art it seems. I really appreciate you coming in with an open heart. It may be that we can straighten things out without all these hard feelings. That would be good for everybody. Thank you for your graciousness.
pylos26— I would rather unite than divide. I would rather divide than have civil war—which won't end the way Liberals think it will.
I'm really impressed with your platform, James. This is well thought out and as so many others have said above, common sense and practical. You've outdone yourself this time. Well done. Again! Is the "A" in your name for Activist, perchance:-)? MM
Mighty Mom— Ha! No, not activist. I am so happy to see your gracious comments, MM. Maybe there is hope in the old USA. I love this place. Thank you for coming by and leaving your laudatory, warm words.
As my youngest son would say, "here's the thing" with illegal immigration. There was a period of "Amnestia" here in Cazlifornia . . . or so I've been told. SHortly after moving here we voted for a proposition that was the perfect solution for this problem but the FEDS threw it out and we still have the problem.
Your plan is similar to an old plan the politicians were suggesting years ago by the way . . . EXCEPT you failed to mention the fact that these people would have the shit fined out of them and pay all back taxes and any other monies that WE citizens would have had to pay had WE been in that situation.
I always thought that wasn't a bad idea. Here is another one: tamper-proof federal ID or even state ID. You need to show this at every school and medical building. I would even be okay with having to show it at every single place you can buy food.
You would also have to show this when you went to rent a place to live. Perhaps the government would attach scanning devices to the doors of these buildings. If you don't have it then you do not get food, medical attention, your kids don't get an education, etc.
The other suggestions are fine. If you would rather not discuss abortion that is fine with me. YOU and I cannot get pregnant. Only woman who could actually become pregnant should have a say--simple!
wsp2469— I agree with everything you wrote here until the end. And I thank you for tuning in and sharing your thoughtful opinions.
To say that a man should have no say in what happens to his heirs—and to say that men should have no say over the killing of 55 million Americans, is ridiculous. It is Feminist pap, sir. The baby is not part of a woman's body. Medical textbooks, without exception, teach that the baby is a separate patient from the mother. The mother is a host. The baby is not part of her body. She has an area of her body designed to protect the baby during gestation. That does not make it a gall bladder or tonsils.
Scarily in tune with my opinions on almost everything but you express your thoughts better than I ever could. Far too much common sense here to be taken seriously as a political manifesto.
Well said about the baby, James. In fact, the foetus (Brit-spell, there) is so foreign to the mother's body that one of the first functions that the placenta initiates is the production of immunosuppressant chemicals to prevent the woman rejecting her child as a foreign body. So, biologically, at least the woman's body is 'aware' that the baby is not 'self' but other.
The whole problem stems from secular society's rejection of the revealed word of God which says that God created man in his own image and likeness - male and female created he them.
Feminists may not like it; secularists may not like it; but evolution cannot satisfactorily explain SEX at all.
Just when did a single-celled amoeba or some such organism decide to split into two sexes and reproduce sexually? It's an example of one of those embarrassing irreducible complexities - such as the 13 stage blood-clotting system - that occur all over the place. The problem is how male and female managed to evolve simultaneously.
I was not looking to get into a debate over when life begins. That's why I said what I said. I was honestly just finding a simple "out" for men. You and I can't get pregnant.
Yes, I agree with you about an heir because then you are speaking about your OWN potential child. I was not speaking so much about potential children of rape or the potential children of others.
We men should have a legal say in any potential heirs created in our own relationships. However, we could put our time to better use if we let women deal with the remainder of the issue.
That's all I am trying to communicate here. You and your woman should be able to decide what the two of you want to do without outsiders telling you what to do. It's none of my business since I cannot get pregnant and I am not the one who impregnated your mate.
The concept of procreative autonomy is sound and, in the emotionally charged circumstance of rape, feticide is understandable but is still murder morally.
The idea that we can glibly abrogate our responsibility for the life of an other human being just because it has not yet been born is a justification of genocide.
'We don't like Jews, so let's gas them'.
'We hate niggers, so let's lynch 'em'.
'I don't want this baby, so let's mince it'.
Doesn't sound quite so liberal put in those terms, does it?
I'm not sure what is being directed at whom but just in case: I am not interested in a moral debate. I'm not interested in debates about when a human begins to be a human. I am barely interested in discussing facts. I simply believe that it is none of MY business what any woman other than my mate does when/if she becomes pregnant. It is not MY business if a woman decides she does not wish to get to the point where she actually IS carrying a human being inside of her. If men let women argue about the bulk of that issue we would have time for other problems that have nothing to do with perceptions as does the abortion issue. I would rather we concern ourselves with making the world a better place for the ACTUAL humans here and let someone else debate about POTENTIAL humans or humans-to-be.
James,
I find myself agreeing with everything you are saying AGAIN! Your hubs are always well written and well presented. I wish that this country can restore itself some self-respect. It begins at home and should transcend to out elected leaders.
Thanks wsp2469 for clarifying your position so eloquently.
You're not interested in facts and not interested in morality, but you want to make the world a better place. Have you considered a career on Wall Street?
But you're quite right. We really have nothing to discuss because we have no common ground on which to base any such discussion.
A better world without morality, concern for facts, or any concept of the sanctity of life is an oxymoron, although the Third Reich had a pretty good stab at it.
It was Cain who asked, 'Am I my brother's keeper?' And, as I recall, John Donne who said, 'No man is an island' and in the same poem, 'Ask not for whom the bells tolls; it tolls for thee'.
Your vision for America is truly frightening.
I'm sorry. I was simply responding to the author of the hub and made a remark that was meant to be taken less seriously then it was. I never said I was not interested in facts. I said I was barely interested. I am more interested in writing actual hubs instead of just comments.
I am not interested in discussing the morals of one person versus the morals of another. We all live in glass houses. None of us are without sin.
Again, I think I should have some kind of say if I impregnate my OWN partner but other women need to make decisions with their OWN men.
I also think that realistically men should be more concerned with making the lives of REAL human beings--not "potential" human beings--better first. The sad thing is, if we made a united to solve one problem at a time we just might get a few things done.
advoco— Stop making sense, again!
I'm glad to find a kindred spirit. Thank you for your comments. I appreciate you coming to visit.
Allan McGregor— Brilliant analysis, Sir. The big Lie has blinded us with science. We can't appreciate our true place in the cosmos. We settle for being described as apes with thumbs, so no wonder life is not precious to many. Thank you for the succinct explication. Wonderfully made and greatly appreciated.
wsp2469— I see what you are saying. That's a different angle than I thought you were taking.
Life begins at conception. That is when an irreversible process starts that ends with us as old people bound for the grave—unless interrupted, of course. Thank you for explaining your position further. I appreciate you coming back by.
Allan McGregor— That certainly shines the harsh light of truth on it, Captain. Rape is a tough question. I suppose that if an exception had to be made, that would be it. But that is always thrown up as if it is common, and it is not. What is common is killing for convenience.
wsp2469— OK. I hear you. I would simply say that after conception what is growing is certainly human. It is not another species. It is actual. But, we'll let it rest. You have some good ideas. I appreciate your opinion. Thank you.
dave272727— It does begin at home. You are so right. Thank you for your compliments, Dave. I appreciate you for coming by and chiming in.
Allan McGregor— You can always raise a great quote, Brother. Every time you leave a comment, it is a sheer pleasure for me to read it. Thank you very much for participating in this thread.
wsp2469— You point of view is certainly valid. It is not exactly my POV, but we do have some common ground. There is plenty of work to be done for all of us to improve the world in which we live. That's for sure.
Mr Watkins…you seem to certainly have an abundance of hate in your heart, as do your followers, for your so called “liberals”, I am just thankful that I am not one. Perhaps you would define the term for us.
I hope listen good news about America's Economy.
pylos26— Not at all. I love everybody. You're confused. If one loves everybody this does not mean one must love everybody's ideas. Some people have hare-brained ideas, that's all.
I don't have time this morning for a full exposition of how the word Liberal has been corrupted, but my Hub "Liberals" explains it fairly well.
KyonSO23— Me, too. Me, too.
Thank you for your comments.
On my initial reading I don't know that I support all of your plans but I did like that you provided potential solutions. I grew up being taught that if you bring up a problem or point out that something is wrong -- you should be prepared personally to offer solutions. That you did very well.
I guess you know that here in our state there are a number of programs in place for children to go to the private school of their choice on full scholarship. The sliding scale is quite liberal in order to qualify, particularly for parents with more than one child. I do think it should be available to ALL parents though, not just those of certain income thresholds.
James, this hub will no doubt be bouncing around in my head for some days to come. I like many of your proposals and solutions, as they bring us back to "the land of fair play." Unfortunately, I am less optimistic over seeing anything like this come to pass in my life time...this would take a greater miracle than "just" getting the majority of U.S. citizens to agree on most things. It would take dismantling the central mechanisms of our so-called government, which seems too widely dispersed for that to happen in a hurry. Afterall, we have become a many-tantacled creature, sticking our noses and appendages into the workings of many other countries, and having theirs thrust amongst us, in return (or in some cases, first). There are also many miniature governments within the larger one, and it is hard to say where the system ends or begins. Anyone who has personally dealt with any government or state agency will understand this implication, I think.
So, the way I see it, either we must revert to our pre-World War II mindset of, "I mind my business, and you mind yours" (internationally speaking), or we must deal with *world reform*, not just *United States reform*. That, clearly, is a God-size task.
In the meanwhile, I'll continue to parent my children according to the standards put forth in the Scriptures, and pray that they reach adulthood with some semblance of understanding of what the U.S. is *supposed* to be, and was intended to be. I will continue to participate in government on all feasable levels, and I will keep my ears open for anything else God would have me do, to further His will among the peoples of the United States, and the world.
God bless you, James, and I'm with you all the way on the reform idea. It starts with individuals like us, and I thank you very much for throwing these proposals out here. Reform will happen, I'm just not sure in which timeframe.
Immigration. If you want to stop immigration you penalize those who hire illegal workers. In the meantime you get off your ass and realize there is nothing wrong with work visas and you make them available. The issue is really one of citizenship and the benefits of being a citizen. You can't realy "fix" it now because there are more than 20 million illegals who are in the Country and many have had children here who are now American Citizens. Complex issue and the Gov't just keeps putting it's head in the sand. One thing for sure that won't work is building big fences.
Health insurance really isn't insurance at all it's Corporate Budgeting. If you are paying $16K a year for your family insurance you are going to use it all the time. The real solution is to create policies that realy "insure"... catestrophic coverages, not every little sniffle and sore arm. I have worked for an insurance company and I can tell you first hand the real cost is in Administration and Salaries. We live in Corporate America and the Corporate Executives are pulling a disproportiante share of Health Care Dollars out of the system. It is not uncommon for Retired Health Care Executives to pull 7 figure retirment benefits... then turn around and run fundraisers.
Corporations do not pay tax because of the Structure of the Corporation. They are simply not designed to pay taxes. The profits either "flow through" to the owners or they are reinvested into additional capital and business. If a corporation is paying taxes they are doing a poor job of distributing their assets to shareholders or creating jobs and growing. So a morotorium on corporate taxes would make little difference. The fact is corporations are not paying much tax now so this would be of little consequence.
What is needed is the abolishment of the Central Bank. Get money back on a real standard - dollar for dollar. Give people back their liberty and freedoms. Get the Government out of our lives. Build roads, schools, and provide basic police and fire protection. Let people take care of themselves. Abortion is an issue that should be dealt with by the people who are involved. It's a medical issue. Perfect example of separation of church and state. I and you should not tell other people what to do with their lives. This applies to drugs as well. If you open up one state and close another all you create is people going from state to state to meet their needs at additional expense and cost.
Again, with illegal immigration the state of California had a propostion that would have worked but the FEDS voted it down. I don't care if your kids were born here, Pedro, you have to go because YOU are not legal. I don't care about "anchor babies" either. Take you baby with you, honey, OR leave it here to be raised by American citizens who want to keep enlarging our population. if life is sacrdd, someone will take you baby, Rosita. Yes, prosecute anyone who hires or even aids them but don't take the attitude we cannot get rid of them. If we cut off their easy access to education, medical treatment and food then all the police and military have to do is arrest everyone who is stupid, sick and hungry.
Take the words FEDERAL RESERVE and rearrange all of the letters and you get - "FED SERVES REAL E" Get the picture?
good plan
'Rick Marlow says:
James,this is an excellent hub.Too bad our leaders can`t come up with some workable options. I guess there are too many hands in the kitty. The health care section in particular interested me as I was retired with 2 heart attacks,the second massive. Left with congestive heart failure at 50. I was self employed most of my life and provided employment for a host of employees. Once employing 18 at one time. I paid a modest fortune in taxes,general liability and workers compensation but there just wasn`t enough raising four children to fully cover myself.I ended up losing the whole kit and kaboodle due to sickness. Business, equiptment,all insurances,savings, investments and even my home , thanks to the oldest home mortgage company in America who would not negotiate or refinance. They hammered me on my credit report when I hit my first and only 30 day late mark and no one would touch me after that.Just a down hill slide.That`s a real horror to see a lifetime of work taken away. Not to mention as you say,all this wiped out my credit to where I can`t get a glass of water.And I had a spotless credit report for 17 years.Talk about bitterness I had. Only by Gods grace have we survived , but my golden years have been reduced to tin.'
I was shocked to read of your case, Rick. If something a quarter as bad happened over here in the UK it would headline news and there would be a public outcry from conservatives and liberals alike.
Even in the UK with its low tax/low welfare orientation you would have received adequate health care and enough benefits to get by without losing your home and savings.
James Congratulations on being a featured Hub! You are very deserving!
Well thought out plan and excellent article. It reveals your great interest in the good of humanity. I must be fair and square and say that Health insurance seems to have it's flaws, but then again I cannot afford Health Insurance because I have too many serious ailments and we are in the poverty level. I am not saying that I should be considered any kind of example that should have weight in the Health care issue. Maybe I hope that a Health care system should satisfy everyone's needs, but that does not necessarily coincide with the massive debts we have in our country. Personally I think wars have not helped matters, nor inefficient leaders.
I think your solutions may have merits, but because of my personal financial situations it is difficult for me to be any kind of good critic on the matter so all I can say is. I have expressed my humble opinion for what it is worth, and that your intentions are wonderful, but politics, inefficient leaders, wars, the costs of running the U.S. Government has been and expensive undertaking. With all this in mind and more, you pretty much have to juggle forty bowling pins at once to have even some good solutions to our country's confusing problems. Just the banks alone and their going under was enough to confuse me. GBY Dear Friend
Jerilee Wei— I like your philosophy. I must add I am quite pleaded to receive this visit from you. It is an unexpected treat for me. :-)
I am aware that there are programs here and there for vouchers but they face powerful opposition from Teacher's Unions, who do not want competition (for obvious reasons). I think competition would also make the public schools better. They would have to lend an ear to what parents want to attract and keep students and it is my belief that what parents want should be an important ingredient to a successful school.
Thank you for your fine comments.
Joy At Home— I love your profile page. Our government is the largest employer in the nation—maybe the world—and it was never meant to be. They do not make anything, therefore add nothing to our wealth as a People. Since they can only spend and waste, and the larger it gets the more fraud and corruption inevitably worm their way in, I say let's reduce it to as small as possible.
I love your ideas about the way you raise your children and participant in the community. You are welcome and I thank you for your wise words. God Bless You!
MikeNV— I agree we need stiff penalties for companies who knowingly hire illegals. But there are also many out there with forged documents that look real. The government refuses to participate in verifying the Social Security Numbers—afraid of being accused of profiling, apparently, I'm not sure.
I absolutely agree with you that one of the big problems with health insurance is the 3rd party payer. The same problem with the two MEDIs. With nearly anything we can think of in the world, if you are using it but someone else is paying for it, it gets overused. I agree it should be like your car insurance, with a big deductible and things like oil changes and tire rotation not included. What's it for? Accidents of course (disease & injury).
The corporate tax rate in the USA is the highest among all countries in the OECD and 10% higher than the average. It is true that only 1/3 of corporations actually pay, but it still represents $310B that could be used to create jobs or buy equipment. And incentivize global conglomerates to headquarter or even produce goods here.
I agree wholeheartedly with your last paragraph, which is full of wisdom. Except abortion—because killing innocents is everybody's business. I favor legalization of drugs, through pharmacies, ending the black market, gangs and cartels.
Overall, your comments are outstanding and I thank you for them very much.
wsp2469— I know of what you speak. Another example of overreach by Federal Courts to thwart the will of the People—remember them!? I know you do. I agree with your proposals and thank you for making them in this thread.
someonewhoknows— Interesting. Who is E?
Filipino girls— Thank you for saying so.
Unnescessary Suffering (sic)— I agree that Rick's comments are heart-rending. If health insurance was like life insurance, Rick could have signed up for a full boat policy when he was 30 for $150 a month and paid that all his life without ever losing coverage, or paid much less for a catastrophic policy that would have helped him with the serious problems he developed late in life. And as an employer, his company would have fared better not having to pay out massive amounts to cover his employees. Thank you for your kind, empathetic commentary.
Kebennett1— Thank you very much! I didn't know! I have been in a 12 hour-a-day seminar and barely participating in HubPages. I appreciate you for letting me know.
stars439— Thank you for your gracious comments. I empathize with the situation you are in at present. I don't think insurance companies should be able to look at your current ailments when you sign up for insurance, and they should take all comers. They should be able to base their rates on age, as life insurance does, which would prompt many to sign up young for a low rate, and therefore pay in for years before they get sick (in most cases). The very word "insurance" means protection against loss from catastrophe, not to pay for routine doctor visits.
I am sorry you are in this spot, GBY. The world is indeed a confusing place. I'll pray for your comfort and healing.
James, my apologies. We are doing fine financially. We pay our bills and our table always has good food, so we are in God's good hands, and in your thoughtful ones too.
I only wish that I could help folks that are down and out. We give to a few nice charities, one of which is Saint Jude Hospital for children with cancer.
Your ideas are fine. GBY My Friend
stars439— Saint Jude is indeed a fine charity, my friend. I am glad to hear all is well. I have been incredibly blessed in my lifetime. No matter what happens now, I have had a wonderful life. Thank you for the good word. I have enjoyed your support.
This is thorough/well thought out & well planned. How strange, a GOOD plan? Hmm...I'm tempted to forward this to a my representative. (I'd vote for you).
steffsings— I now have about 20 votes! I'm on my way. A good plan would be strange these days, wouldn't it? :) Thank you for your comments.
Hi James, another great post. I can tell you put a lot of time and effort into this. I wish our elected officials would spend half as much time trying to come up with feesible solutions for these problems. I also agree with all of your cardinal points. Can I vote for you for pres. in 2012?
muley84— Hey! You have a great new avatar, I see! Much better. Cool with the cigar, too. Thank you for the compliment. I don't know about president, but I may run for congress. Thank you for visiting and for your kind words. Nice to hear from you again.
Hi James, I particularly liked this hub -- not that I haven't liked your other work.
I would add that offshore hiring needs, NEEDS to be nixed.
And tariffs around 20% are instituted across the board.
You are correct, I believe we need to stop the madness or insanity.
If you get a chance check me out at zazzle.com/tacklethis* or zazzle.com/goodsenseisnotcommon*
Tackle This— Thank you. I am glad you liked it. I am not a fan of tariffs, personally. There are ways to make America the most attractive place to have a global corporation, though. Eliminate labor unions and corporate income tax. Tariffs against others nearly always lead to tariffs against our products. I will check out your sites.
James, check this out! http://hubpages.com/profile/DCBULL
No funds appropriated or otherwise made available under any provision of law may be obligated or expended to increase the number of members of the United States Armed Forces serving in Afghanistan so that the number of members serving in Afghanistan exceeds the number so serving on the date of the enactment of this Act. HR3699...? Your take?
jib— I did check him out and became a fan. Thank you for the tip.
jiberish— I looked at HR 3699 and I don't see this provision. Where may I see it?
jiberish— Thank you for that link. The usual suspects there. That bill has no chance of passing; they know that; it is a protest bill more than anything. No worries. :)
James Watkins for President, 2012!
donotfear— I thank you for your support. I have 21 votes now and that is my lucky number!
Hi James, glad you like the new pic. It was taken last month in Cancun on my birthday, hence the shot and the cigar.
muley84— Very cool, man. I'm diggin' it.
James,
Just read the above and I'm giving it a lot of thought. Unlike the President, I don't have to call for an immediate vote.
You know we agree on many issues, so I know I will start off thinking pro. This was well written and thought out. I gave up my political desires because of illness. A friend is VP of the Dallas Republican Committee and running for the Senate in 2012.
Any Texans wanting to know about him (conservative) his address is gregsenate2012@verizon.net Plese mention my name when writing. The Dallas chapter is having a meeting in the near future, and he can send you information on himself and the party.
Harvey Stelman— Thank you, Harvey, for taking the time to read my piece. I appreciate the compliments. I will check out your friend. I have met Governor Perry as well as Senators Hutchison and Cornyn. I love Texas.
James, Brietbart just had a piece that included my earlier post.
jiberish— That Brietbart dude is too cool. I love his work. He does have a pair. Thanks for the tip!
I just wanted to say I truely enjoy reading the workings of your mind. I like how you stay middle of the road with a foot firmly on each side. And though I might vote for you, I do agree your pen has more impact now than it would behind a puffed up desk.
As for the tax issue, ugh! I am just recently taking a class to become a tax preparer and let me tell you, the IRS is absolutely insane with the amount of money they demand from us. Yes, in-state taxing would be greatly beneficial, but do you really see the IRS ever just letting go of this sweet (and free) pie they have been sucking on for so long? Haha! I almost wish I hadn't taken that class. At times, ignorance is truely a beautiful bliss.
At any rate and totally besides, I am very much enjoying reading your hubs! There are people many out there who think and many who talk, but few who think and talk at the same time. So thank you. I look forward to reading more from you!
Hi ,
You got a large number of responses. But even though I am not an American, I am Indian, a country of greatest democracy who had a common ideology with America, wants to pay my highest tribute for you on seeing your concern for illegal immigrant, health care and what not. It purified my conscious to thing for people of the country of brotherhood.
Before I begin, I would like to compliment you on a well-thought out, well-written Hub. Granted, I do not agree with all that was written, but still it was very clear and concise.
That being said, I think the best option for abortion is keeping it as-is. There are cases where it is necessary, be it medically or emotionally. While I personally am against the taking of innocent life, abortion is better suited in a doctor's office than it is in back alleys.
Now, keeping this view in context, would it not be fair to establish a clause that says that one could utilise the tissues collected from the aborted fetus to help spur stem-cell research ? While it is complicated and controversial, would it not better suit us to continue exploration in life-saving potentials than it would be to halt ?
What are your thoughts on these ?
Calling Crow— Welcome to the Hub Pages Community! I am pleased that you enjoyed my work here. I am sure you have learned through your classes that a big problem with the IRS is 100,000 pages of tax code. People can't understand it.
I am grateful that you tuned in and left such gracious comments. And you are welcome. I look forward to reading more of your Hubs. You first effort is excellent.
Although, I agree with you about the ills foisted upon us via some of the actions of labor unions; many of those unions were probably designed to protect those employed by selfish scum. I, in some ways, am leaning hard toward. Also just to play devil's advocate for a moment what would be actually need that we cannot create here at home? Aside from some creature comforts.
Have labor unions become somewhat evil? Probably. Fifty dollars per hour per individual isn't as wise as our Asian counterpart and their being willing to work for $28 per hour. Even though many of them are building cars, they are not operating on people. But at least they show up for work, which is more than I can say for 3% of Amerika (LOL)
H P Roychoudhury— I have the greatest respect for India, one of our best friends in the world. I recently watched an excellent documentary, "The Story of India." I enjoyed it immensely.
Thank you for taking the time to read my article and for leaving your gracious comments. I appreciate it.
ragnarokfinis— Thank you very much for the compliments.
I am concerned about this research you mention. It is a very complicated issue for me morally. I view the fetus as a little person. Organ donors must sign a statement before their organs can be harvested, and a baby can't do that. (This may change, by the way. The current administration would like to make organ donation mandatory unless one signs a statement asking it not to be done.)
I don't have a clear mind on this. I don't land firmly in either camp. I suppose if the parents of the aborted baby want to donate the body to science, that might be OK.
Thank you for graciously posing a tough question. I appreciate the visit from you.
Tackle This— The unions are a big problem. There was an article last month in the "New Yorker" about the New York Teachers Union. After 3 years, they have lifetime tenure at $100,000 per year. After 30 years they get $50,000 per year pension for life. If they are suspended for misconduct, they sit in a "rubber room" doing nothing for 3 years while drawing full pay. Rarely can they be fired—no matter what they do. The problem is that humans have a default position of doing as little as possible if guaranteed a great salary no matter how they perform. This is not the way to maximize effort. Karl Marx said, "Unionism is the first step to Communism."
Thank you for coming by and offering your insights. You are greatly appreciated.
Interesting and very thought out James, as usual. The indoctrination of our kids must end. I hope to keep my kids in private Christian schools. I always enjoy your writings. God Bless
spiderpam— It is nice to see you back! You have been missed. Thank you for coming by and leaving your gracious comments. Kids in Christian schools do better in life after graduation, that has been proven. It seems some want what is best for kids; others want what is best for the teacher's union. It is a shame it has come down to that, but it has.
James, I agree with you. Unions should only employ a couple of attorneys that go to bat for you when you've been truly screwed. Thank you for the lesson. Sadly, I am sure that what could have been a good thing on a leash has turned into an appetite for destruction -- self destruction.
I found your plan better than what they are currently considering in Washington D.C. This article displays deep thought about these issues. May I suggest you take up politics, get yourself elected to the Legislative Branch (where the power actually is)? That way it shall be easier to propose. :)
Tackle This— I am always pleased to find a kindred spirit. I agree that unions may have seemed like a necessity at one time. The power they now have is corrupting and corrosive. Thank you for coming back and leaving your words.
aliciaharrell— Thank you very much. I am considering running for Congress next year. I appreciate your kind comments. Thank you for reading my Hub. :)
JAW long time no see! Great HUB!! Glad to see you have been keeping up the good work! First a joke...
Are you a Democrat, a Republican, or a Redneck?
Here is a little test that will help you decide.
The answer can be found by posing the following question:
#You're walking down a deserted street with your wife and two small children..
Suddenly, an Islamic Terrorist with a huge knife
comes around the corner, locks eyes with you,
screams obscenities, praises Allah, raises the knife, and charges at you.
You are carrying a Colt Model 1911 45 cal. automatic pistol, and you are an expert shot.
You have a mere seconds before he reaches you and your family.
What do you do?
THINK CAREFULLY AND
THEN SCROLL DOWN:
Democrat's Answer :
Well, that's not enough information to answer the question! Does the
man look poor or oppressed?
Have I ever done anything to him that would inspire him to attack?
Could we run away?
What does my wife think?
What about the kids? Could I possibly swing the gun, like a club and knock the knife out of his hand?
What does the law, say about this situation?
Does the pistol, have appropriate safety built into it?
Why am I carrying a loaded gun anyway, and what kind of message does this send to society and to my children?
Is it possible he'd be happy with just killing me?
Does he definitely want to kill me, or would he be content just to wound me?
If I were to grab his knees and hold on, could my family get away while he was stabbing me?
Should I call 9-1-1?
Why is this street so deserted?
We need to raise taxes, have paint and weed day
and make this happier, healthier street that would discourage such behavior.
This is all so confusing!
I need to debate this with some friends for few days and try to come to a consensus..
Republican's
Answer:
BANG!
redneck's Answer:
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
BANG !
Click..... (NEW CLIP)
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
Click...
Daughter: 'Nice grouping, Daddy!
Were those the Winchester Silver Tips or Hollow Points?! '
Son: 'Can I shoot the next one?!'
Wife: 'You ain't taking that to the Taxidermist
...hope all enjoyed.
Next a statement from Roosevelt in 1907...'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language.. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'
I also wanted to add to your healthcare reform plan that currently allowables for durable medical equipment (DME) are marked up 400% because the actual cost of the item is paid for by the allowable i.e., a power wheelchair costs about $1200 to $1500 for a supplier but they will bill medicaire and private insurance $4700 to $7500 so that the minimum allowable paid out will always cover the full cost of the equipment. If you apply this concept accross the board you will see the impact it has on insurance costs. It has the same impact on medical professional because the retailers have to charge whate the suppliers charge thus driving up the prices of all medical equipment distributed from said manufacturer. Pharmaceutical works in much the same way except the mark up is exponentially higher. Anyone can from a manufacturing background can tell you that charging $50 to $1oo per pill is outright robbery. in many cases the actual production cost is under $1.
I like you consumption cost idea too. I have long been a propponent of raising sales tax to supplement our current tax.
One unfortunate resolt of both scenarios is a drop in the retail index because people comsume and dispose less. Although I somewhat agree with reducing waste I dont want capitalim to suffer.
Lastly I want to run an idea I had a few years ago..
I have always been alarmed by the large number of Americans who simply chose not to work in this country but instead live on government assistance. We take it at face value that claimants are unable to work and we dole out our pity in an open ended and poorly regulated aid system. Aid recipients should be assessed on their abilities (because even disabilities do not render a person useless to society). Most will possess various abilities (clerical, to menial labor) and be entered into a pool of for basic government labor. I feel that this system would provide tax relief and bring a sense of pride and ownership back to americans by being part of society. We would only be paying for them once as basic government employees instead of twice by paying for them to receive welfare or disability, etc., while we also pay a salary for a basic level government worker. This system could be implemented at all levels of government from city to federal to DOD. I have worked in and dealt with many of the current personnel in these jobs and can say with certainty the quality of service wont get worse than it already is. I would also include in this plan the use of non-violent offenders in public works capacities around the country with work experience and sentence reduction as incentive.
Any way sorry for the long comment but I haven't talked to you in a while. Keep it up!
elb22— Where have you been!? I'm glad you're back. Thank you for the compliment. That's a great joke. I love it!
Roosevelt had it right. He was a man, not a sissy.
You are dead on in your paragraph about the cost of medical equipment. Again, a case where the prices are set by the U.S. Government (Medicare), which always overpays. A free market system would clear that up immediately because someone would sell the equipment for less and take all the business. Lefties don't see that. All they see is an authoritarian state as the answer to everything because most of them have no experience in or knowledge of how business works. But regarding pills, we must remember the production cost of the pill is a small part of the investment of a drug company. The Research and Development of new drugs—the majority of which are never approved—is the major cost AND if there is not a financial carrot for success, who on earth would invest millions of dollars on a gamble?
If, with a consumption tax, people buy less, that will mean that they save more and that would be great! Our national savings are at an historical low—dangerously low.
I agree that anybody except an invalid should have to work doing something. Hell, put them in the DMV! Maybe the lines will shorten. :) I know people who have successfully applied for lifetime disability pay from the taxpayers in their twenties who told me, "I just don't want to work. I don't like being around people. I told my case worker, one leg is shorter than the other and she put me on disability." That is an absolutely true story and I could tell you many more like it. This is a symptom of a societal sickness created by the Great Society.
Thanks much for coming by and leaving your wonderful words.
James, I like some of your ideas but some I think need rethinking as well. Your ideas about immigration are great. I don't agree with the Medical Malpractice idea of being limited to $250,000.00. So you honestly think that if my child at an early age dies in a hospital due to medical mal-practice or the lack of care or caution used in treating or caring for my child should be limited to $250K? Many people are making that income in a years time. Will $250K make up for the years and years of loss of happiness, or the memories, what about my possible future grandchildren which might be lost due to this? Will this even cover the amount of counseling or health care needed for myself that might be needed as a result of the loss of my own child? I just think $250K is a bit low. The other ideas seem great. I'd like to know what your stance is about prayer being removed from our Schools? from the pledge of allegiance? This country was founded on the principles of God's teachings. Do you believe this James? This is quoted from the Declaration of Independence, what are your thoughts? Do you think that Church and State should be divided? Do you think God's teachings should be active in todays School System? Do you think it should be excluded from the Pledge of Allegiance? Quote from our "Declaration of Independence" We hold these truths to be self-evident,
that all men are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator
with certain unalienable rights,
that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Here's another Quote: "We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in general Congress assembled,
appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent States, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliance, establish commerce, and do all other acts and things which independent States may of right do."
Reading these quotes what are your thoughts on these matters?
Thank you James.
bryguy1— No amount of money will make up for the loss of a child. I think we need to reframe how we look at doctors. They are practicing. It is an imperfect art. America seems to have a "cure me or I'll sue you" approach, which studies show lead to billions wasted, and pain inflicted, for millions of unnecessary tests. You see, they'll get sued if they don't order the right tests, so they order them all. Tests are costly, to say the least. Much of what doctors do is to ward off lawsuits, not to mention $80,000 a year for malpractice insurance for surgeons. When court comes, a jury naturally sides when someone who was not healed versus a big insurance company. Of course, intentionally harming someone is criminal, but an honest mistake? A lot of the healing process is not in doctor's hands, IMO.
I absolutely believe this country was founded on God's Teachings. My Hub "Founding Fathers" makes that clear. I abhor the removal of God and prayer from the classroom. The result is evident: 1/2 of our public schools have armed guards and metal detectors.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Founding-Fathers
Thank you for your wise words. I appreciate you coming by and sharing your thoughts. Welcome to HubPages!
On the points you made I would basically agree. It would be great to see America united again but do the politicians really want this or is the ideology so embedded that it would be impossible; or are they so corrupt that any compromise will limit their powers and profits. I am for term limits and this should be a focus and let's see how many politicians are against it. Great Hub.
Jane— Will do. Thanks for the tip. And the visitation.
ehern33— Thank you for visiting my article. I appreciate your fine comments. It may well be impossible—but we can dream! :-)
I, too, am for term limits. Having professional politicians is one of our problems. Thanks for the compliment.
This is an awesome hub, were you reading my mind or something?
Vote For James Watkins. I truly enjoyed this hub. Are you genious? Got ya. For reals James you touch many hearts, minds and spirits. I believe you are Holy Spirit inspired. Your words flow like fresh, living water. I am grateful our paths crossed. Washington DC could use your input.
Thank You for leaving an awesome comment on my hub "Holy Spirit." He moves like the wind. I am not sure how I landed here tonight but I do not think it was a mistake.
Blessings friend. I will be back. Hugs
Audacious Shelley— Thank you for your kind comments and welcome to the Hub Pages Community!
skye2day— I apologize for not responding sooner. I just got home from Israel!!! I'll be writing about that trip soon.
I believe I have 22 votes now! :-)
Regarding my comment on your Hub "Holy Spirit" it is well deserved. I highly recommend your work to one and all.
I am humbled by your gracious words above. Thank you. :)
I agree with you all the way!
Godslittlechild— I am glad you do! Thank you for reading and for the support. :)
You did the best you could do (great, btw) AND you maintain a teachable spirit. Please let us know when you are ready to run for office.
RTalloni— Thank you very much for your kind comments. I am considering running for Congress. My Representative is surely beatable. Welcome to the Hub Pages Community!
Beautiful dreams for repairing our torn seams . . . but abortion (causing our curses) is not a choice because a baby has rights . . . and until we get that just right, everything else will continue to be a fight.
Thank you for your fanship. I will do my best in earning it.
Have a wonderful day!
ClareBaros— Very poetic! I agree with you that abortion is a stain on our national soul—an abomination. You are welcome. I plan to read some of your work soon. Thank you for the visit and the comments.
Ah... huh, a stain that doesn't need to remain says the very simple universal law of metanoia (change of mind). . . promising it will not destroy us. And, if we proceed as such, there will be joy much!
Thank you.
ClareBaros— Metanoia. I did not know that word. Thank you for I am always interested in new words. I agree with you. I believe God would bless our nation if we outlawed abortion. I cannot believe any person thinks it is OK to kill an innocent baby in the very place designed to protect it. You are welcome.
Hi, Thanks for writing! We need more people willing to stand up and call out the issues. Keep up the good work.
Mark Zarr— Welcome to the Hub Pages Community! You are welcome. Thank you for coming by and leaving your warm words.
Hey James, good read..
agree on most but you wrote:
To solve the immigration problem, I propose that we make it law that every illegal in this country must come in and register with the government—with a promise of no deportations for anyone who has employment and no criminal record. Issue them a three-year work visa. Anyone who does not show up to register or come back for an interview after the three-year visa expires, is to be deported immediately..
My question would be how would we find the one's that dont show up ?
They come from such a lawless and corrupt land I think they would just keep doing it the same way, really they have no fear of repercussion from our laws about being here illegally because there rarely enforced ...
Again finding them would be a real trick, even if you did and deported them they would just hang around a border town for a day or so then come back...
ABORTION: I think it should be left up to the family, screw the state, that is a major personal decision and no doubt a hurtful one that the Gov. or state should keep their nose out of....
Everything else James Im good with, make a few adjustments and run for president, I'll vote for ya!....lol
thanks again for the good read
BTW I liked this from one of your readers: ELB22 WROTE:
There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language.. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.
Well put
Glen G— I'm still waiting for # 2. :-)
Thank you. It might not be easy to find them but it is surely possible. Our tracking methods are better than the Nazis had and they found six million Jews (sorry about that analogy).
Not enforcing our laws is a big part of the problem. As you say, it leads to disregard of the law. DUH! And we surely need a big wall down there. Not to keep people in, like the Berlin Wall, which leftists love to compare this idea to; a wall to keep invaders out, like the Great Wall of China.
ELB22 certainly did put that rather succinctly. :)
Thanks for the excellent commentary.
Wow, James, it's amazing how much we think alike! When you become POTUS, can I be education czar?
Illegal immigration is a problem here because of migrant farm work. The illegals are intimidated and abused due to the threat of being deported. Your system would address this.
I was just wondering...who do you like in 2012?
habee— I remember when you started. You now have well over 200 fans. That's quite an accomplishment. Congratulations!
You can certainly be the Education Czar. You can do multiplication, right? :D
I've got Georgia on my mind. My step-daughter lives in Marietta and that's where I'll be spending my Christmas.
Too early to tell. I like Huckabee, Romney, Palin.
You have some fine constructive ideas here. While I can, of course, disagree with some of your assertions, at least the focus is on policy and not hype, hysteria, and name-calling. Good Hub.
Jeff May— Thank you, Jeff. I appreciate your visit and comments.
However, I'm a little baffled by your statement, "I like... Palin." How can someone of your obvious intelligence be blinded by Palin?
Jeff May— I'm not sure "blinded" would be my description. I like the fact that she is a real woman. I am tired of these whiny baby-killers, Pelosi, Boxer, Feinstein, and the lot of them with their endless facelifts. I think Palin was an excellent governor and certainly had more experience governing than our current president. But, of course, I am a big fan of the Iron Lady, too, and I have a feeling you abhor her as well. Palin represents, to me, the antithesis of radical feminism—not workplace rights and all that, which is universally accepted; but the feminization of boys and men, the man-hating, the whoring around, the lesbianism, the divorce, the cohabitation, the out-of-wedlock birth promoting radical feminism with their key focus on the murderous rampage of killing done in the name of "reproductive services." That last term alone should make any professor bust out "1984" and revisit the twisting of the English language done by those who have deceit and depravity in their hearts.
I don't know how things are in the ivory towers, but believe me when I tell you that most all men I know would rather spend an afternoon with Sarah over Nancy hands down.
I assume your “Iron Lady” reference is to Margaret Thatcher. If so, I have a lot of respect for her. If I may paraphrase Lloyd Bentsen, Sarah Palin is no Margaret Thatcher. If she is the antithesis of radical feminism, then she is herself a radical, an extremist.
Your reference to all the men you know reminds me of the joke --- the good news is that God gave men two heads, the bad news is that men can only use one at a time.
That's a good paraphrase. I remember old Lloyd. That's a good joke, too. Actually, I am originally from Michigan, and Sarah reminds me a typical Michigan girl (not in Detroit, of course). What do find extreme about her?
I was merely extending the logic of your "antithesis" remark....
As for Palin's extremism, that's a good question. Her witch-doctor pastor driving evil spirits out of her seemed a little weird, but the debate shouldn't get mired in that sort of thing. Since she is so engaged in political pot-shots, and name-calling, it is often difficult to examine her policy positions. Also, she has often appeared incompetent. If she is going to be viable politically, she will need to refocus on policy and get better at fielding questions from reporters.
I've spent lots of time in Michigan and love it. And, at any rate, I should be grading essays... so thanks for the dialogue... While I don't share the same concerns, I do have a little better understanding about why some are wary of current political trends. Thanks.
Jeff May— You never know . . . there could be evil spirits.
I agree with you that she needs to focus on policy and her question-fielding is not good. I don't know if she would be a good president, or even if she is electable. But, I do like her as a public persona.
You've spent a lot of time in Michigan? Great! I lived in St. Joseph perhaps 30 of my years or so. Very nice there.
I have enjoyed talking with you. Grading essays—that must be interesting.
If you get time later I do have a HUB about why I had to leave Michigan.
Scott.Life says:
2 months ago
This plan has some merit and should be explored more, but alas I already hear the stampede of opposition. i don't know what the answer is anymore James, only that something needs to be done. Money seems to be the issue, who has it, who wants it, and who's willing to fight to keep it and how its spent by those that take it.