Divided America: The Battle for Core Values and Who Will Prevail

1. 87

   Sharlee01posted 3 weeks ago

   
   
   Americans have become deeply divided over a combination of political, cultural, and social factors that have been escalating for decades. The truth is, political polarization has intensified significantly over the last 40 years. The two major parties have moved further apart ideologically, with Democrats becoming more liberal and Republicans more conservative. Media, especially cable news, has played a huge role in this divide, with networks like Fox News and CNN reinforcing partisan viewpoints, turning into echo chambers where compromise has become impossible. The rise of the internet and social media has deepened this divide even more. Platforms like Facebook thrive on sensationalism and algorithm-driven content that feeds people what they want to hear, rather than offering balanced perspectives. This has created ideological silos, where Americans are less likely to confront opposing viewpoints and more inclined to live in their own ideological bubbles.
   
   Cultural issues like immigration, race relations, and gender identity have further deepened the divide. Conservatives feel that traditional American values are under attack, while progressives view these issues as necessary struggles for justice and equality. These cultural wars now dominate political discourse. On top of that, economic inequality has also fueled the divide. Many Americans, particularly in rural and working-class areas, feel left behind by a rapidly changing economy driven by automation and globalization. This sense of disenfranchisement has given rise to populist politics.
   
   Then there’s identity politics, which has added another layer of fragmentation. People’s political views are increasingly tied to their race, gender, or other social identities, making cooperation across political lines even more difficult. Issues are no longer just about policy; they are about which group you belong to. All of these factors together have created a perfect storm of division in America, where finding common ground seems less important than fighting for one’s side.
   
   Time to ask, who wins in the end? In my view, it will be the side that taps into the innate core values most Americans hold dear. At the heart of it, Americans cherish freedom, self-reliance, and autonomy—values that go back to the very founding of this country. We hold dear the rights to free speech, to worship as we choose, to own property, and to make decisions for ourselves without undue interference from the government. These are the freedoms that have allowed individuals to thrive in a society built on personal responsibility and opportunity. These innate values don’t align with the collectivist, centralized control pushed by many left-leaning ideologies. Hence, the great divide.
   
   What we share, regardless of our political affiliation, is a love for the Constitution, a respect for hard work, and a belief in the American Dream. No matter where you come from or what your background is, you can succeed here through your own effort. We also share a sense of loyalty to our families, communities, and country—values that transcend political differences. These are the values that bind us together and are not easily swayed by fleeting trends or extreme ideologies.
   
   Given all this, I believe that in the end, the side that defends these core American ideals—personal freedom, limited government, and individual responsibility—will win. Despite the left’s push for more government intervention and centralization of power, I believe that at the core, Americans don’t want that. They want the freedom to live their lives, make their own choices, and enjoy the fruits of their labor. So, while the journey ahead may be tough, I believe those who defend these principles will ultimately be the winners. 
   
   We’ve built this nation using these innate tools—freedom, personal responsibility, and the drive to succeed. As we continue this great experiment, I’m confident we’ll continue to rely on the same tools that have served us so well from the start. 
   
   Thoughts

   replyreport
   1. 84

      gmwilliamsposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Great thread, I will return later as I am a bit under the weather.

      replyreport
   2. 88

      wildernessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Much of what you say here resonates quite strongly with me, but I cannot agree with your assessment of the "innate core values most Americans hold dear".  I think you are picking up the values of our (yours and mine) childhood, are at least those values from decades ago.
      
      I don't see Americans today cherishing self-reliance, not when over half the population receives government charity and most people don't leave off the efforts of parents until mid to late 20's (or when forced out). 
      
      Too many don't value the ability to worship as they please - instead they value the ability to describe how others must worship.  We see more and more of that; bibles as textbooks in schools, Christian icons in schools and elsewhere on public grounds.  We see an almost total rejection of anything but Christianity (how many of our legislators, have been anything other than Christian?  2%?  4?)
      
      We see ever greater dependence on government to control our lives, with ever more rules and regulations.  These are accepted as "reasonable" by most, almost without question.
      
      I very much fear that those tools you mention (freedom, responsibility, etc.) are dying out.  Greed is taking it's place, along with the desire to control how others live.  I'm almost glad that my life is winding down, with perhaps a few decades left at best, for I do not wish to see my country deteriorate into just another anthill, controlled by a few at the top that tell us all how to live our lives and enforce it by taking what we build, handing it out bit by bit as further control.

      replyreport
      1. 87

         Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         I get where you're coming from, and a lot of what you said hits home. It's true that self-reliance seems less valued when so many depend on government aid and stay under parental support longer. The shift is real, and it raises questions about whether we're nurturing that old American drive for independence.
         
         The debate on religious freedom is complicated, no doubt. There’s been more push for certain beliefs over others, but I still see hope. Plenty of people defend the right to personal belief and push for a more inclusive approach. It’s messy, but the conversation isn’t over yet.
         
         As for government control and endless regulations, I get how it feels stifling. But there are also people pushing back, calling for less centralized power and more individual responsibility. Grassroots efforts are sparking, and that’s something to watch.
         
         I do agree that freedom and responsibility are being tested, but I still hold hope. Some younger folks are starting to see the value of independence and challenge the norms. It’s not perfect, but there’s potential for those core values to make a comeback. America’s story has always been about facing tough times and coming back stronger, and I think we still have that resilience in us.

         replyreport
         1. 88

            wildernessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            I hope you're right and I'm wrong.  I hope with all my heart, for I do not like what I see our country becoming and I do not like what I see the people of that country becoming.

            replyreport
            1. 87

               Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

               Dan,    In my many years, I’ve witnessed a great deal—even moments when it felt like our great experiment was doomed by a segment of our society. But I can say with certainty that nothing compares to what I see today. Throughout history, it has always been the liberals who were dissatisfied and stirred up strife. They were never content with the ideologies of the right, which, I must add, have remained relatively consistent over time. The battle between these ideologies is nothing new. What is new is the extreme measures the left has adopted, many of which stand in stark contrast to the religious values upheld by the right. There’s no need for me to list those issues—I’m sure you’re aware of them. We’re now at an impasse, where both sides stand firm, as if saying, “Oh no, you don’t.”
               
               Conservatives deeply believe that the foundational American values have served us well, and there’s no room for compromise. Many feel that the leftist ideologies lack common sense, turning what we see as good into something perceived as bad and vice versa. Trump's recent victory gives me hope and reinforces my belief that core values can prevail. I kept faith that Americans would wake up and resist a path that endangers these values. Witnessing Trump—a man accused of almost everything under the sun, complete with a mug shot and a felony conviction (though I believe it’s nonsense)—rise to become the 47th president renews that hope. It signals that a majority are ready to push back against liberal ideologies, protect democracy, and sustain our great experiment.
               
               I believe most people are angry that we allowed things to spiral so far out of control. Yes, Democrats will continue to fight, but if Trump performs well—and I believe he will—we will leave the chaos behind, as we have many times before. Americans are a unique breed, capable of recognizing our mistakes quickly and correcting course. I think we have done so just in time.

               replyreport
   3. 80

      Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Well written, I find the Rights tendency toward authoritarianism as represented by Trump and his entourage most troubling. I don't like those that don't follow the rules or believe that they have the right to operate outside of them.
      
      These ideological difference are irreconcilable in my opinion as we are no too far apart. How you folks interpret your "noble" values are not so noble as seen from the other side.
      
      Looking at the Trump agenda over the next 4 years, I see turmoil brought to a high boil.  As far as the future of America is concerned, my view is generally pessimistic.

      replyreport
      1. 69

         Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         YOU see Trump as an authoritarian threat and all the labels attached to him.
         
         The people who voted for him rejected what they have been forced to suck-up the last 4 years.
         
         They don't want men in women's sports...
         
         They don't want government spending sprees that jack up inflation 25%.
         
         They don't want millions of migrants brought in... so many there was no place for them to go... taking care of them while leaving Hurricane victims to suffer...
         
         They don't agree with Equity over Equality...
         
         The American people rejected the wars and woke that was shoved down their throats the last 4 years.
         
         Trump was sent back to the White House to FIX the problems... to break apart the corruption in the establishment... to move America in the OPPOSITE direction of the last 4 years.
         
         He had better bring Gabbard, Kennedy, Ramaswamy, with him and put them in prominent positions... Americans are fed up... that is why Trump is there.

         replyreport
         1. 80

            Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            I and almost half the nation see Donald Trump as a threat, so this is a bit more than just a faction, Ken.
            
            Just wait and see what the people will have to suck up to over the upcoming 4 years, you ain't seen nothing yet.
            
            Yeah, Trump will " Fix it" alright but I am betting that the citizens will not be happy with the outcome.
            
            And when Trump and his henchmen get through screwing things up both domestically and internationally beyond recognition, as he always has, I will place the "Don't blame me I voted for Harris" on my car bumper.

            replyreport
      2. 87

         Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         I can see why Trump's leadership style raises those concerns for many. Personally, I see the issue from a different angle. For me, it’s about the balance between strong leadership and the rule of law. I agree that no one should operate outside the boundaries of the rules, but I also recognize that a strong stance is sometimes necessary to challenge what many perceive as entrenched, unaccountable systems.
         
         Trump's approach, while unconventional and often confrontational, is seen by his supporters as a push against bureaucratic overreach and political elites who seem detached from ordinary people’s struggles. It’s not that I think he should be above the law; rather, I believe in holding leaders accountable while acknowledging that sometimes breaking with political norms isn’t inherently authoritarian—it can be a reaction to systemic issues that have been left unaddressed for too long.
         
         Of course, maintaining democratic principles is non-negotiable, and the balance between power and accountability is crucial.
         
         I get why you're feeling pessimistic, especially with the uncertainty and intensity of today’s politics. However, predicting turmoil can sometimes make it harder to see the potential for positive outcomes.

         replyreport
         1. 80

            Credence2posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            "I agree that no one should operate outside the boundaries of the rules, but I also recognize that a strong stance is sometimes necessary to challenge what many perceive.....
            
            I don't know if I like that, one must operate using the tools made available through the Constitution to make changes, or those so called change agents could trample on the law themselves in their zeal. Entrenched and unaccountable systems is just another term for Donald Trump's bogie man, the "Deep State" which is basically composed of those individuals that take issue with Trump. People whose loyalty is to the Constitution and the American people, not one deranged man.
            
            Trump is the last person that I could see as having any affinity for the "common man", a billionaire born with a silver spoon in mouth, how could he possible relate?
            
            I am suspicious if anyone who does not follow the rules. Trump may well be an antagonist rather than the "hero" that wants to make America great again.
            ----
            "Of course, maintaining democratic principles is non-negotiable, and the balance between power and accountability is crucial."
            
            That was the single most important sentence in your comment here.
            -----
            However, being made giddy with happy talk, from someone who has never made a positive impression for me, can make it harder to see and appreciate the potential danger.
            
            I don't trust neither him, his instincts nor motives to be nothing but malevolent beneath the sugar coated veneer.

            replyreport
   4. 87

      tsmogposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Eloquently written choked full of words, thoughts, ideals, and more to reflect upon, inspire, and even motivate. I could offer criticisms and accolades, however will that follow along with 'my core values'? Of course, I admit, I don't always live up to my 'core values'. My core values are based on what I learned as an early teen. There are really only three, yet they have guided my life since '67 when I was at the age of 13.
      
      My 'Core Values' is pretty simple and they are:
      
      God (Religion?) . . .
      
      "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matthew 22:36-40).
      
      Family
      
      My dad made sure I knew and understood . . .
      Family first
      
      Social
      
      The first oath I took and live by still today is the Scout Oath, which is . . .
      
      "On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight."
      
      The twelve Boy Scout laws are:
      
      ** Trustworthy: Be truthful, keep promises, and be dependable
      ** Loyal: Care about family, friends, school, country, and Scout leaders
      ** Helpful: Volunteer to help others without expecting anything in return
      ** Friendly: Be a friend to everyone, even those who are different
      ** Courteous: Be polite and use good manners
      ** Kind: Treat others as you want to be treated
      ** Obedient: Follow the rules of your family, school, pack, community, and country
      ** Cheerful: Look for the bright side of life and try to help others be happy
      ** Thrifty: Pay your own way, use time and resources wisely, and try not to be wasteful
      ** Brave: Face difficult situations even when you're afraid, and do what you think is right
      ** Clean: Keep your body and mind fit, and help keep your home and community clean
      ** Reverent: Be reverent toward God and be faithful in your religious duties
      
      I have added other values though my lifetime, yet I wouldn't say they were core values.

      replyreport
2. 87

   Sharlee01posted 3 weeks ago

   I believe Americans have an innate sense of values and ideals that make them distinct—such as a strong commitment to individual freedom, resilience, and a belief in democracy. These qualities shape our collective character and the way we uphold our democratic principles. Growing up in a society where these values are cherished and passed down through generations has reinforced my belief that they are deeply ingrained, not just learned or adopted over time.  This is my reason for having faith in them to, in the end, do what they feel will benefit our democracy.
   
   I’ve held onto this faith throughout this election period, especially as I've watched how far the Democrats have strayed from true democracy. Over the years, I’ve seen many elections where common sense prevailed, and we moved forward. Every four years, we had the opportunity to assess whether changes were necessary to keep the path of democracy clear and open to progress. That's what’s great—we can keep our eye on the course and, every four years, make sure we’re still on the right path and change direction if needed.

   replyreport
3. 80

   Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks ago

   In my view, we have four years to appreciate and uphold our American values, the Constitution and the bounty of the land itself. Let us follow our laws, keep our fields, forests and waterways unpolluted and our farmlands productive. Let us manufacture our own goods and provide for U.S. Let us keep greed and desire for power at bay by upholding our laws, especially monopoly laws. Let us teach our children according to what is lasting and true. Let us tend to reality and not pretend to illusion/delusion.

   replyreport
   1. 87

      Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Absolutely agree—preserving our values, protecting our environment, and fostering self-reliance are essential. Upholding laws and teaching enduring truths are vital steps toward a stronger, more grounded America.

      replyreport
4. 84

   Venkatachari Mposted 3 weeks ago

   I am listening. Each of you tells the right things. We need to go with the trends and tolerate things. The world is changing day by day and moment by moment.

   replyreport
   1. 87

      Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      I agree—staying open-minded and adaptable is crucial as the world rapidly evolves. Embracing change while staying true to core values could help us move forward together.

      replyreport
      1. 80

         Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         "Embracing change while staying true to core values could help us move forward together."
         
         So true.

         replyreport
5. 69

   Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks ago

   The Unelected Establishment is already working to undermine the Trump nominations and selections...
   
   This is 100% proof that we have a run away government that no longer answers to the Will of the People or its elected officials...
   
   This battle will get uglier before it gets resolved... true Americans need to support the Trump effort to oust this unelected cabal that has ruined our country and caused so much American suffering.

   replyreport
   1. 58

      Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      Trump is proving that he is not serious.  He is nominating an unqualified, equally unserious clown car of characters. Gaetz, Gabbard and Hespeth should all fail confirmation.

      replyreport
      1. 69

         Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         
         
         
         
         
         
         Unqualified ... unserious...unwell... incapable...???
         
         I think Biden... and his entire Administration... has that covered.

         replyreport
         1. 87

            Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            I think Biden... and his entire Administration... has that covered.
            
            Cough Cough--- me too.
            
            Thus far all but Matt will skate through.

            replyreport
            1. 58

               Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

               Gabbard will not survive the scrutiny.  The backlash is fierce all ready.... Among your ranks.
               
               Now we know why he wants recess nominations.   To drive the clown car right on in...

               replyreport
               1. 87

                  Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                  I feel he has chosen wisely, and all the right people that can work with him to keep his promises.  Gabbard will be confirmed. Gabbard's positions on foreign policy, social issues, and national security are a perfect fit and align with Trump's mandate. Not hard to predict this confirmation.

                  replyreport
                  1. 58

                     Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                     Gabbard comes with a ton of baggage she'll have to explain.  I don't think she's trustworthy based on her previous actions.

                     replyreport
                     1. 87

                        Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                        I see things so differently. To me, she is remarkable—strong, intelligent, and principled. It’s strange because back in the 1970s, she would have been celebrated as a hero by liberals.  It’s fascinating how much the liberal movement has shifted over time. Now, I struggle to find meaning in their causes or understand who they consider their heroes. They used to have inspiring figures.  Now they need to pay them for endorsements. 
                        
                        Tulsi shares my ideals and my values.

                        replyreport
                        1. 95

                           Readmikenowposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                           She's an Army officer...so...I will support one of my own.

                           replyreport
                        2. 58

                           Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                           "It’s strange because back in the 1970s, she would have been celebrated as a hero by liberals. " 
                           
                           Possibly, but then she started parroting Putin and dropping in on Assad .

                           replyreport
                           1. 87

                              Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                              Yeah, Tulsi Gabbard did talk about why she met with Assad back in 2017. She explained that her main reason was to get a firsthand look at the situation in Syria and see if there was a way to help end the war. Gabbard has always pushed for anti-war and non-interventionist policies, so for her, talking to all sides—even controversial ones like Assad—was important for understanding how to achieve peace.
                              
                              She basically said that engaging with leaders you don’t agree with can be necessary to stop conflicts and save lives. Of course, this visit got her a lot of backlash from people who thought she was giving Assad, who’s been accused of serious war crimes, a sense of legitimacy. But Gabbard defended herself, saying she was focused on preventing more war and avoiding the whole cycle of endless regime change that has cost so many lives.
                              
                              The only thing she gained was respect from people like me--- She has always promoted peace. This visit in my view was a wonderful gesture on her part.  I guess I could have thought differently if I was not aware that she was a true activist for peace.  She is a hero to anti-war activists.
                              
                              She shares Trump's vision for peace around the world. It is very clear you know nothing about Gabbard but what you got from left media.

                              replyreport
                              1. 58

                                 Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                                 "It is very clear you know nothing about Gabbard but what you got from left media" .
                                 
                                 Are you aware of the comments she made about Assad and his regime and what he did to the people of Syria??  Certainly not a vision of peace.

                                 replyreport
            2. 69

               Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

               This young man has a good spin on it:
               
               Chaos ERUPTS in Washington as Trump Nominates Matt Gaetz for Attorney General
               https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-3N_JHkHGs
               
               This IS the Civil War I had been hoping for... for a decade now...
               
               We need to flush ALL the corrupt and criminal elements out of DC... all the lunatics that WANT to march our country into WWIII... all the lifers that think THEY know better than the majority of America and want to shove all the "woke" and all the "war" and all the "open borders - one world" BS down the throats of Americans.
               
               Americans have been trying to vote this nonsense OUT of the government since the Tea Party flipped Congress (House and Senate) two decades ago.
               
               Now that some champions for the fight have stepped up to do the People's work... its time to support them... and give NO credence or credibility to ANYTHING the MSM and the DOJ or the FBI has to say about it... get them out of the way and let the incoming Administration do the job, the work and will of the American People.

               replyreport
               1. 87

                  Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                  Ken, so on the money...  There will be no holding Trump's mandate back. The entire Democratic party has been pushed into a corner and has little face, or fight.   
                  
                  I’ve seen very little pushback on Trump’s appointees so far, so it would be surprising if that changed now. While some senators may want full vetting for certain nominees—an understandable process for ensuring qualified appointees—that could slow things down a bit on a few. President-elect Trump has been advocating for the use of "recess appointments,". I think he will get some through recess, but not all.
                  
                  However, if that becomes an issue, Trump won’t hesitate to pressure Senate leadership to get the job done quickly. Given his track record, it’s clear that he expects fast action and won’t let delays go unchecked. If the confirmation process stalls, we can likely expect Trump to be vocal about pushing it forward with all the urgency his supporters expect.  I mean I think many of these Senators have witnessed the power of Trump's going after slagers.  But, yes they will put up a bit of a battle.

                  replyreport
                  1. 69

                     Ken Burgessposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                     I think it is becoming evident now... Trump learned his lesson and knows he is at war, his quick decisions and choices shows this...
                     
                     When he declared war against the swamp back in 2016... I don't think he expected to find what he did, to be attacked the way he was... I don't think any of us suspected the depths of the lies, the deceit, the corruption...
                     
                     And when they got back in power... they fleeced Americans and cranked up the war efforts like never before...
                     
                     I believe we are seeing the beginning of the defeat of the evil behemoth known as the DC Belt Establishment... we can hope they are strong enough to get the job done.

                     replyreport
                     1. 87

                        Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

                        We're about to go through a truly historic time. Trump has learned a lot from his past term and sees the bigger picture. In an interview, he mentioned, 'I thought certain businesses were cutthroat, but politics has some very evil kinds of people.' He's had four years to strategize and prepare, and I believe he’s determined to make real changes, potentially breaking down entrenched systems like no one before him. That level of determination is both impressive and a bit daunting, if you catch my drift. During one of his interviews with Hannity, he even mentioned plans to release documents related to JFK, MLK, and Epstein. This could shake things up in an unprecedented way. 
                        
                        One needs to think about what he has been put through. He will be hell-bent on what we call to drain the swamp--- but we may want to look for a new phrase.  I think he is looking at becoming one of the most historical presidents in history.  I am so pleased to be around for this part of history.

                        replyreport
      2. 80

         Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         ... watching The View much?

         replyreport
         1. 58

            Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            No

            replyreport
            1. 80

               Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

               Deleted
            2. 80

               Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

               ~ good.

               replyreport
   2. 87

      Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

      I completely agree. It’s clear that the unelected establishment is pushing back against Trump’s nominations, proving just how deep this problem runs. We’re facing a battle to reclaim a government that truly represents the will of the people. True Americans must stand behind Trump’s effort to dismantle this entrenched power and end the suffering it has caused. Hey, he is building a machine, of all like minds, all having that same fight in them as he does.  This is like no other administration I have seen in my lifetime.
      
      We have a man who will fight tirelessly and a team that has one vision --- You can’t ask for more than that.

      replyreport
      1. 58

         Willowarborposted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

         "I completely agree. It’s clear that the unelected establishment is pushing back against Trump’s nominations, "
         
         Seems that many  Senate Republicans are pushing back against these ridiculously unqualified nominees..

         replyreport
         1. 87

            Sharlee01posted 3 weeks agoin reply to this

            Now we wait to see what happens with the nominees. I’m pleased with all of them, except Matt Gaetz—I just don’t see him making it. The team couldn’t be better, and they’re all on my list. It’s clear Trump has brought in dedicated MAGA supporters to help fulfill his promises. Strong, loyal allies are essential to achieving such an ambitious agenda. I’m especially glad to see he’s appointed strong women fighters, and I expect more to come in the days ahead.  I think all will make it, but Matt.   I don't feel there will be much pushback on Trump's appointees. Just my view. I could be wrong, that's why I don't like to predict.  But most are very much suitable for the jobs they were chosen to do, well educated, and clean of  any serious scandal.

            replyreport
6. 80

   Kathryn L Hillposted 3 weeks ago

   Found it:
   https://foolishwatcher.com/2024/11/14/o … ppointees/
   
   "A clown car is a prop in a common circus clown routine, which involves a large number of clowns emerging from a small car. The first performance of this routine was in the Cole Bros. Circus during the 1950s. The effect is usually produced by removing all of a car's internal components like door panels, headliners, engines, seats, and any interior barrier to the trunk, and then filling the enlarged space with as many clowns as possible.
   
   Greg DeSanto of the International Clown Hall of Fame estimates that somewhere between 14 and 21 clowns and their props could fit into a car prepared in this manner."
   
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clown_car

   replyreport
7. 58

   Willowarborposted 3 weeks ago

   GOP Rep. Troy Nehls...
   
   “if Donald Trump says, jump three feet high and scratch your head, we all jump three feet high and scratch our heads, that's it.”
   
   My God . What a moron.   brainwashing?   This is just getting bizarre.  Odd behavior for sure.

   replyreport