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LIVE Blog: House Dems report increased threats
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[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/03/25/capitol.police.hcr.gi.art.jpg caption="Capitol police officers stand watch in front of the U.S. Capitol on March 21, 2010 in Washington, DC."]
(CNN) - Democratic congressional leaders Wednesday demanded Republicans join them in condemning a spate of threats and vandalism that has followed Sunday's vote on a sweeping overhaul of the U.S. health care system.
More than 10 Democrats have reported trouble since the weekend vote, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer told reporters. Windows have been smashed at Democratic offices in at least three states, and federal agents were investigating whether a cut gas line at the home of a Virginia congressman's brother was related to the lawmaker's yes vote.
Democracy "is not about violence," Hoyer said at a news conference with South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, the No. 2 Democrat in the House of Representatives. FULL STORY
Other top stories:
California could legalize pot
It's an historic step forward for pot supporters – California could become the first state to legalize marijuana for non-medicinal purposes. The measure will be on the ballot this fall. Our Dan Simon is in Oakland talking to people on both sides of the issue.
Relaxing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
Big changes are expected to the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. The Pentagon is set to announce this morning that the military will no longer investigate gays who are outed by third parties or complaints made anonymously. We'll get reaction from soldiers in the field.
Sound off: Join the conversation on today's top stories. What do you think about health care reform threats, relaxing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," or legalizing marijuana? Add your comments to the LIVE blog below and we'll read some of them on the show.
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Sylvia... Does the Government pay your car insurance if you can't afford to? You health insurance premiums will go UP now – even faster than before.
Jane you probably have wonderful health insurance and u could care less about the millions who have pre existing conditions or who cannot afford health insurance...thats so typical of the Republicans way of thinking..we got ours to heck with the rest of the losers...I am for health insurance reform and this will be a legacy just like social security of medicare...do you want to run those legacies down also...get with it Jane.
@Helen, Mark – John just read your comments on the show.
Now, the more rational and civil conservatives know what it's like to be a rational, peace-loving Muslim. That is, to be categorized together with a dangerous, but fringe element amongst them. Furthermore, I don't see how they (ranting Republican leaders) can justify not vehemently denouncing and ultimately accepting responsibility for the actions of these bad apples the way they expect Muslim leaders to do their own bad apples.
This "death threat" stuff is being blown way out of proportion by CNN, the far Left Dems, and other liberal progressives. This is exactly what the far Left progressives want .... to spin up lies that all those opposed to health care and the Obama agenda are a bunch of crazies. Well the poeple won't buy it .... sorry CNN and progressives. 70% of us are not far right crazies, we just know that America is not about a socialized health care system.
How can this not be domestic terrorism?
We have a small number of people using threats and violence to impose their will against legitimate government.
We've seen this before with the Irish Republican Army (IRA).
We even have a political wing with John Boehner and co.
We have a provisional wing with spokespeople like Sarah Palin and Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck.
The political wing can ring its hands and say "well people are angry" while maintaining deniability about any actual violent acts.
I am thrilled HealthCare Reform passed. I am also a registered Republican who was fed up with the Republican Party. Republicans state that the Democrats "just don't get it." In my opinion, the Democrats "got it" and passed reform. Next, move on and address the next serious issues, such as jobs and our ill preforming educational system.
The violence erupting against Dems who voted for the Health Care Reform Bill is reprehensible.
Whatever happened to the right to agree to disagree? Republicans bear some of the responsibility for the tone of arguments surrounding this bill and their half-hearted remarks about condemning all violence are quite transparent.
Could we please discuss, debate, agree or disagree without name-calling, threats and even some irresponsible people literally inciting or encouraging people in this violent behavior.
We ALL have the right to our opinions but we also have the right to voice differing opinions without fear or fear for our families.
Please, U. S. Congress, clean up your rhetoric and take responsibility for your actions.
These threats to the reps were a natural progression of last summer's routy, rude behavior displayed and encouraged by some republicans, tea party members and right wing media screamers and backers. It was totally predictable. It sorrows me that the republican leadership is not being more forceful and consistant in denouncing this behavior then and now.
I think any government official who helped to encourage people to act out in a violent way towards democratic leaders, should be immediately asked to resign or removed from their position. and John Boehner should be one of the first to resign! his rage and anger towards the passing of the health care bill, fueled the angry fire and in my opinion help escalate the current situation against Democrats.
To the Dumbocrats posting in here about health care ... ask yourself this ... if this health care reform plan is so great why are the people that voted for it exempt from it?
Mr Obama you are the Man. do not back down from the greedy republicans go for it all . You do not say what people want to hear you believe in what the people need in life
thank you
Mr President
it is sad that our media fuels this type of crap by allowing the squeaky wheel to get more attention than the majority. just think if this was acorn or any other minority group protesting; 1) it would not be covered by cnn 2) cnn would be asking the question if these people are unamerican 3) cnn would be doing an indepth investigation on the funding of acorn or any other minority group protesting.
its almost like we are living in the 60's again
It's a shame that "conservatives" are resorting to such violent, vitreous tactics, yet they're so willing to so publicly claim that they ascribe to Christian values. Does Christianity really teach them to threaten the wives and children of these members of Congress? What I know of Christianity teaches to love thy neighbor, that we should care and provide for the sick and the weak and that it takes a community to raise children. Only when their perception of Christianity is tainted by the color of money do they somehow find a way to link greed and Christianity. Finally, think of this. When "conservatives" were busy passing the Bush-era tax breaks and blatantly impinging upon my civil rights, did you see progressives spitting, using vulgar epithets, or resorting to violence? Absolutely not. The fact that they are reacting with such pure, raw emotion indicates that their issues are not based upon any reason or deep reflection.
Didn't a liberal group put the addresses of CIA agents who they think conducted "torture" on the internet? Aren't there folks out in California who have been staking out the home of John Yoo, the attorney who advised the Bush administration on issues about the war in Iraq?
I'm thinking about all the dealers who sell marijuana illegally now. Would black market prices rise? Would that force us to make a conscious decision wether to buy legally or illegally? Would they stop selling in the streets to open brick and mortar shops to sell legitimately? Would legal dealers deliver the greens to our house like some who do illegally?
I think that if we are going to legalize marijuana for revenue, we should also consider trying to knock-out the black market as best we can for now. Like being able to have more than 1 ounce in possession which would prevent more of us from buying from illegal drug dealers from which we can buy more than 1 ounce at a time.
i would like to comment on legalizing marawanna. i'm not someone who believe's in any kind of drugs,but people need to wake up and realize if pot was legalized the economie would not be in such a bad defocit. congress would be able to tax it and then our prisions wouldn't be so full. they need to start thinkging outside the box.
there's lots of money to be made from pot.
The Republicans don't have a health care bill so they want to stop the american people from being insuranced.Now if a person gets sick and has to go to ER we the people has too pay the bill, with insurance the bill would be paid by their own insurance. So I ask whats wrong with having your own insurance,you have car insurance.I ask what is wrong with insuraning yourself. Avery time a person goes to the ER the cost is on the middle people to pay
I have a question for Tiger Wood's press conference: does he think sports figures should be held to higher moral standards than politicians?
We have a majority rule government. Deal with it.
Members of Congress ought not to become cheering sections for advocates of anarchy as did GOP Congressmen who applauded protestors in the gallery on the night of the HCR vote. It demeans them and their office.
GOP Senators should accept this time they didn't win and should stop throwing a metaphoric temper tantrum by cutting off Senate Committee meetings. The business of the people shouldn't be fodder for their political games.
And Democrats should remember what goes around comes around and should behave accordingly. Next vote might not be theirs.
John: Your comment about eight LIRR riders, making sure that they get a beer (or 2, or 3, ...), is not so cute, when you consider that these same people may get off that train at their train stop drunk (or at least with their alertness impaired). They will drive home subjecting we their fellow drivers on street at risk of serious injury (or death) from these impaired drivers.
While I do not condone violence as a way of change, what transpired in this Health Care being passed was not the Democratic process but a Dictatorship by congress. The first three words of the Constitution are “We the People” who overwhelmingly did not want this version of the bill. Congress in my option has opted for treason against the will of the people and that mentality that congress operates in a bubble in the beltway will only serve to possibly to trigger a civil or violent revolution so that “We the People” feel that we are represented. If you would like proof, the battle cry of the Revolutionary War was “No taxation without Representation”.
What do I feel about these threats? I'm disgusted by them. I think that they are an insult to our democratic process. As a citizen of the United States, I take them personally. If threats and bullying from either the left or right sides become an acceptable alternative to majority rule, our democratic process is in trouble.
How can the Republicans say mandated health insurance is illegal when we mandate auto insurance?
Steve,
You don't have to own a car. Therefore, you wouldn't have to buy car insurance. Also, auto insurance mandates are done by states, not by our federal government. It's comparing apples to oranges.
Hey Jim Acosta, I have not heard one Republican say they are against healthcare reform. What they are is against how the current legislation goes about reform – increased government spending, taxes and bureaucracy!
Why is it so inportant to know what someone does in bed with someone else...........what ever happen to privicy???? what ever happen to people minding there own business????
Problem is everyone has to know what everyone is doing including what 2 people do in there own home........I am not Gay but have a brother who I love very much, who is gay......
What people do in bed in NO ONE business but the person they are with...........PERIOD!!!! No buts no nothing......it's that persons business
Now aday people need a reason to invade someone privicy and use Gay/Aids as a reason which we all NOW know anyone can get it.........I am so sick of hearing what others do in bed when it's no ones business but there own and the one who choices to be with that person.....
People of all ages/sex are dying for this country.....or have died for this country that are gay or straight and we honor them like they should be.....people being gay doesn't mean they can't do the job asked of them cause it beeen proven that they CAN. and will do the job BETTER most who crying they shouldn't even be doing the job in the first place.
Leave what people do in bed that is PRIVITE out of the talking cause like I said before
WHAT PEOPLE DO IN BED, IS NONE OF ANYONE ELSES BUSINESS BUT THE PERSON THEY ARE WITH!!!!!!
Well, the Republicans are suppose to be the Christian party right? Well, this is hate and th bible clearly states that hate is of the evil one. This is a conflict of intrest. Are they aware that fear is a tactic of the evil one and the bible descriebes it as "witchkraft". Sarah Palin the so called Christian is doing all of this. Wow......They really need help!
If you are ok with making threats and throwing bricks, chances are you will be ok with bullets and bombs. Is that really what we want the world to remember us for again?
In regards to your health care problems; why not just take the Canadian example? We can't really understand what the heck the problem is. Just take the Canadian healthcare version and all will be well. EH? -Tony
I have no idea who thinks that death threats are an appropriate response to legislation one disagrees with. People have been whipped into a frenzy by the Republicans to the point that bodily violence has become an option in some people's minds, and that's a sad bit of commentary on the quality of our current politicians, and how disenfranchised the average citizen feels.
I think legalizing marijuana is a good idea. Has anyone ever considered that this might be the way to help our budget deficit? You hear every day that they are taking millions of dollars of marijauna off the street, what if that money was actually going to the federal deficit? What about the fact that if it is legalized that it would create jobs to grow and process and so on? As far as the kids getting it, aren't they getting it right now? Come on....if it was legalized they would have a tighter control on it so that the kids wouldn't get it, at least not as much. Has anyone talked to the teen age kids now adays...they can get whatever they want right there in their parents home. Guns, drugs, alcohol, prescription drugs....are we monitoring the parents? And just so you know...NO I do not smoke marijuana but I think it would help the deficit.
I'm not at all surprised by the threats and vandalism aimed at Democrats in the light of the recent Health Care Reform bill. I guarantee you, every one of them is a Republican. It's very telling that it all turned up on Palin's hate-mongering mob mentality website. So, are these the "real" Americans she so smugly and arrogantly referred to? She's the most offensive, dangerous type of pop celebrity (that's the only label that's appropo): An ignorant fool with camera appeal and a small, yet vocal, audience. She and her kind represent true Armageddon, much more than any health care reform bill. God help us all!
At the risk of someone throwing a brick through my window, I wound say if ANYONE gay, lesbian or straight is willing to serve their country, they should be allowed to do so with honor and pride. Enough with the fear mongering and plain ignorance! The playing field will grow, like it or not!
It is time to begin arresting people who continue to give address' of democratic leaders who continue to cause trouble in and around the capital. It is no longer free speech it is hate speech
By legalizing marijuana between the money saved from not having to pay for the manpower (from police to correctional officers) and the costs of housing prisoners and the number of court costs not to mention the tax revenue that would be earned (adding up to about 90 billion per year) could in the end make it possible to pay for universal healthcare or any number of things that this country needs to pay for. Also, it would allow a focus on the narcotics that pose true problems for our citizens. It is also more complicated for teens to get ahold of alcohol or cigarettes than it is for them to get marijuana therefore by legallizing it would likely help curb that ease of access. This isn't even mentioning the fact that it would reduce the amount of prescription narcotics that are in use today which cause a number of addiction issues and the fact that due to marijuana being prohibited makes hemp illegal as well. While hemp can be used for anything from clothing to building materials to fuel as a renewable resource. It seems to be the only ones to lose by legallizing marijuana are the pharma., tobacco and alcohol companies.
The GOP leadership needs to distance itself from the hate-mongers as well as demanding arrest and prosecution of those making terroristic threats. Failure to do so is akin to consenting to the behavior of these hateful few.
On the health care bill there are parts of it that are good for the people of this country but there are parts that need to be fixed such as the pre-existing for adults, they need the insurance now, not have to wait until 2014. As for the violence going on it's time to put a stop to this, there is a better way of getting your opinion through to Congess. Elections are coming up,
Seems somewhat disingenuous that you make this such a Right Wing/Tea Party problem when you said nothing when the Left was bombarding Stupak with threats "before" the health bill was passed. However I should not be surprised, you are CNN; agenda news organization.
Legalizing weed would not only be good for the state government and the tax issues, but as a gambling man I would be willing to put one million dollars on the fact that crime rates would decline as well. Not only for use and posession but across the board. Keep the peace, raise the funds, free marijuana!
I think the republicans have been upset ever since they lost the election.They are thinking about all the money they will lose from the kickbacks they get from the healthcare facilities. They should think of the people they are suppose to be serving, the American people who they are elected to represent. All people deserve health insurance and they are making fools of themselves trying to deny this fact.
i don't agree with the hate crimes and giving dem death threats. but i do understand why people are mad. if the health care bill passes, mabe not right away, but in the near future the dem will find out how wrong they are for paasing the bill.
What do you expect from the Republicans they tell lies and then don,t want to except the slim that comes from what they say.
Some of the people making these threats call themselves christians. They need to start asking themselves, "what would jesus do?".
as far as the threats go lets look at some facts. If this got rammed down american throats and there is nothing we can do to stop it what else can they get away with. This country could be destroyed from the inside such as germany was with hitler. These people were voted for to represent OUR interest not to act upon whatever they want to no matter if we like it or not. To me that is treason. I love my country and want to protect it. You want a peaceful resolution give us an additional check and balance by the people. Give us a bill that allows us to reverse this by vote and a bill to vote no confidence and remove the representative in what we feel is an absolute emergency. Americans will defend themselves even from what is considered an inside threat. We take a lot in the name of politics but there is a point where it goes beyond politics.
No one shouted "babykiller" at President Bush according to one of the posters. No.....someone just created a movie on assassinating President Bush. He was just hung in effigy by the loony anti-war protesters and the kooks at Code Pink.
Every action has a consiquence...perhaps these Congressmen should have listened to the people before they made their backroom deals and voted yes on this.
I wish I was one of those everyday American's they seem really well-to-do. I wonder what their average income is. I bet it's twice as much as mine and I bet I work twice as many hours.
what happened to PAGO?
When Republican, government officials stand in front of a crowd at the capital, slapping and punching a picture of The United State Speaker of The House of Representatives and chanting KILL in front of an angry misinformed crowd; they are setting the tone for violence. Please stop saying, "apparently" congressmen and their families are being threatened, they are being terrorized to change their vote. Forget the way they vote on issues, these threats and acts of violence are the dictionary definition of domestic terrorism.
Politicians, tv and movie personalities receive threats and vulgar e-mails all the time, yet only when democrats get these type of messages does CNN feel obligated to report it. There sure was not this type of reporting when republicans were threatened during the Bush years or most recently when Bart Stupak and his wife were threatened by the left wing nut supporters of Obamcare. Surely, you want us to believe there is no double standard at CNN?
Good Morning.
I listen to your program on many mornings while I am at the gym for my morning run. I am a 26 year old who has a different opion on the health care reform. Do I beleive that changes need to be made. Absolutley. However I do not beleive that it is the goverments job to do it. I also do not agree that it is their Job to say that you have to have health care. Does my family, yes. I just do not see how this is not a socislist/communist view when we start letting the goverment control everything. And I have a question, why is there anything about student loans in a health care bill? I am under the understanding that you wrok for what you have. Everything should not be a hand out. I know that this sounds harsh. My husband works very hard for the things that we have and I was rasied by parents that taught me the same values.
On the Don't ask Don't tell policy. I agree with the three star general. And I believe that if you did a poll on the American military all branches, that you would find a vast majority agree with him. The every day american people do not know what they are talking about if they have never served. My husband is in the military and I have some concerns even as a wife. Will men be allowed to shower with my husband if they are homosexual, I sure would not want another woman showering with my husband...When they are in combat are they going to have seperate sleeping quaters, are the same rules that applie to heterosexuals going to apply as sexual relations in a combat area? There are many, many questions that have not been addressed from the issue. However I do not think that they should be discriminated against. That is why the policy that we have is there, I do beleive that it needs to be re-enforced better for their protection. And I think that if you take away the Don't ask Don't tell there will be more of a danger for those who are gay in our military.
I appreciate you having this blog so that Normal Americans can share there thoughts on subjects that matter to us.
Have a great morning...
Brittany
"Any society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve niether and lose both."-Benjamin Franklin
If Republicans can't live by the rules of a Democracy then they should leave this country.
We are a Democracy based on civility and these moron thugs fanning the flames like Sarah Palin should be held responsible.
–Hef
Threats are a crime and should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, regardless of whether these were sincere or not.
-D
I don't remember hearing about these types of threats and anger when the Bush administration wasted billions of dollars in tax payer money on a war in Iraq or the Bank bailout.
I honestly think the people who are saying joining the tea-party and are so hateful to Democrats are simply those same people who attended the McCain-Palin rallies and spewed hatred and anger – that was before President Obama was in office.
Why would any Congressman want to represent someone who would call them a baby-murderer, break windows or cut propane lines? I don't expect my Congressman to represent criminals and crazy people.
These people making threats don't love freedom, they don't love democracy. They don't care that the majority made a decision and that's the way it has always worked. They are acting like terrorists – i.e. "if you don't do what I want or agree with me I'll hurt you – you'll pay."
Maybe they should legalize it in Washington. It would take care of the violence and hatred that is going on.
John Bohner says hell no we can’t. The people say yes we can. Through threats and intimation with totalitarian manners you herald lies and threats. We say NO repugs YOU DO NOT KNOWS BETTER THAN THE PEOPLE .You incite sedition and lies and the blood is on your hands. The people want to live in peace love their families and do something worthwhile in their lives. You just like them to stay peasants HELL NO I SAY DOUBLE HELL NO
Why is Rush lLimbaugh allowed to call the leaders of this country "Bastards" , and say things like "We need to elliminate them" without getting arrested. Anyone else would be investigated and charged.
I wonder how many of those who want marijuana legalized are the same folks who are on the anti-cigarette smoking bandwagon?
I thought republicans were rich and sophisticated, now I see they are all a bunch of thugs and naysayers. I do not see any republican that truly follow the facts...lies lies lies is their motto say it and people believe it even if it is a lie. Shame on them.
I think the hysteria on the right is dangerous and, worst of all, manufactured by their leaders in the government and on the media. To me, it is sickening.
From what I have heard, there has not been a whole lot of examples of "violence". Breaking a window is vandalism, not "violence". A nasty phone call is not always a "threat". Of course, real threats and real violence are not condoned. However, Republicans have received similar phone calls. I don't recall CNN working themselves into a tizzy about it..
The Democrats have created this super charged atmosphere. Their arrogance and disregard for the public's will is stunning. The public is most concerned about the economy and jobs. Health insurance reform is way down the list. Yet, Democrats wasted over a year trying to create some sort of "legacy" for this President.
WHy is everyone so mad just because they want to mandate health insurance? Car insurance is mandated, and noone cries about that. In my opinion, a person`s health is far more important to insure than a car. Cars can be replaced, if you get sick and die there is no replacing that.
As a career soldier I can tell you I would much rather serve with an openly (or not) Gay soldier than an ignorant one.
All that really matters to us is that we can count on each other when the lead flies. Ask any WIA if they were worried about the medic's sexual orientation. For most of us it is good enough that he stepped from relative safety – out into hell to come get one of us. Thanks Brother.
Why do people think with their rearends and strike at other people for doing what they feel is right. If we do not like what those in Congress are doing WE have the right to vote them out, not to strike out at them. Making threats, or doing damage will only cause you harm and jail time then you cannot vote and make a change. Stupid people where were you when the last president struck at a country based on WMD falsehood, or you Tea party members when the last administration started the problems we have to day. Point the finger but take no blame. Well God bless you cause no one else will for you lie just like they are now!
Why do Republican politicians, Sara Palin and Rush Limbaugh etc... get away with inciting hateful rhetoric & violence....because their rallying their base?
Any African-American, Muslim or religious group – even school-aged child or in the workplace using this same terroristic language & threats would result in a termination, suspension, expulsion, resignation, investigated or some penalty.
These people do not deserve to be in public office paid for by taxpayers – these are not the type of leaders we need. C'mon this is code Klan & Nazi talk...(Palin's hit list & Limbaugh talking about running people out of town)
We need to call for the resignation of so called leaders and representatives.
This country has already been down this road before, looks like they want to take us back.
It has nothing to do with wether or not marijuana could raise a billion dollars or cure cancer. It is simply that this plant has medicinal value, can not be overdosed, and is a safer recreation than alcohol and tobacco. tobacco is a known addictive substance, that is known to kill hundreds of thousands annually, and has no medicinal value. though its legal and cannabis is not?..Its not that legalization isnt long overdue. its the fact that illegalization should have never happened. cannabis should of stayed in the pharmacies like it was in the 1930s.
It is amazing that CNN portrayed these "NO" Dems, right up to the arm twisting and deal making to pass an unpopular and massive change to lifestyle. CNN benefitted from the final week, days and hours of Dems potential change in vote. That coverage fed this anger without question. It does not condone the results of the angry, yet it fed it.
Well when one gets into politics and allows themselves to be involved in the "politics" of Washington, then alot comes with that role. Does not make it right. None the less, you sometimes get more than what you signed up for. People should just take care of things in November, but some cannot rationalize that. Sad.
Pot is as close to a harmless drug as you can get. If we can't trust adults to use it responsibly can we really call ourselves a free society? (NO!)
Legalization of marijuana for recreational use would be a very big help for our pitiful economy, it should be considered not only in California but for all of the US. Healthcare haters need to realize that degrading voicemails, faxes, and letters are useless. There's better and more efficent actions one could take to make a difference in the healthcare situation other than throwing bricks at office windows, or cutting propane gas lines. As for the don't ask, don't tell policy, our government wants to protect our gay soldiers or marines that are willing to fight loyally for their country, but won't let them get married? That seems kind of hypocritical to me.
understand that with don't ask don't tell. men feel like gay men looking at them is the same as being undressed in front of women we dont want seeing us. SO if they want to house them separately as they do women it would not be a problem. But i wouldnt accept them sharing my private space and showering facility. Its a matter of personal importance. It goes beyond just a place to sleep
We are seeing the predictable result of the lies, distortions and exaggerations of certain politicians and their politically-biased media mouthpieces.
The most frightening thing is that this is just one step in the predictable result... actual violence and property destruction is the next predictable step.
The saddest part of it all, is that the people who stand to gain the most by this kind of legislation are often the most easily manipulated by that kind of rhetoric.
Many thanks to CNN for helping point out those lies and distortions!
Seems to me all the pharmacies sell drugs why not legalize pot as a drug and they can sell that as well.
For quite some time I've found the habit of referring to Republicans as conservatives laughable. It would seem more appropriate to call them the radical party.
Pot in CA
I don't even smoke pot and I think this is a smart idea. Want to decreased crime & violence? Regulate & tax it!
As far as kids getting their hands on it easier, guess what, all they have to do is ask the right friend at school already.
Removing the mystique and "forbidden" perception will eventually alleviate its influence.
Way to go, CA!
"just the thought of an american citizen being mandated to do something or pay a fine" I'm fined if I don't pay my taxes. In michigan I'm fined if I don't purchase car insurance. It seems we already have many laws that mandate we do something or be fined.
I work full time at two jobs. My husband works a full time job also. All three of our full time jobs offer healthcare. Sadly enough I need to work 80 hours a week to afford for my children to go to the doctors even with health insurance. How many of you are willing to work as much as I do. That's what we are slowly working towards. Two working parents can no longer support their family.
If we value democracy so much than why don't we offer gays the same rights as everyone one else. Why do we let those who have one religion choice our laws for the rest of us. I shouldn't have to be christian or forced to believe what christian's believe to live here. I shouldn't be forced to be straight to have everything that I want for my life. I should be able to choose what I want in my body. I should have the right to be able to support my family and maybe see them every now and then. I should have the right to an affordable education. If I choose to have an abortion and it's not against my religion then that should be my choice not yours. Those nations that have legalized abortions have much lower rates of abortions than those that don't legalize it.
Sadly we are not as democratic as many other nations. We have been scared and hoodwinked into loosing our rights instead of ensuring that people get their rights. Other nations have become much more democratic than we are. WE ARE NO LONGER NOR HAVE WE BEEN A GOOD EXAMPLE OF DEMOCRACY.
The problem with the rhetoric in politics is that the republican party is doing the same stuff they were doing during the election..inciting people to violence...aka MCCain Palin campaign..those rallies were downright SCARY and very worrisome..well that has translated over to the tea party movement and the NRA folks..Sarah Palin is enriching herself by manipulating and empty head crowd who will spew out the venim the republicans are selling..not only that this empty head crowd will even take it further...beware America..they are the ones to fear not Socialism or Communism taking over....angry mob ruled by lack of education, love of guns and violence....
The legalization of marijuana for recreational use is the best idea that I have seen come out of any state government as a possible solution to all increasing debt. Furthermore, this would raise a great deal of money for any state that legalized marijuana. Marijuana is farther less damaging to society than alcohol for example. Marijuana isn't even comparable those other street drugs anyway. No one steals or kills for pot. I am a motivated college going, hard working individual that has been smoking weed since I have been out of my parents house. No harmful effects have happened to me. It does relieve stress and my migranes as well however. Oh, and no loss of inhibitions or hangover.
about drug legalization...no civilation in 2500 years has won a "DRUG WAR", not even China; prohibition does not work. Imagine where our economy would be if the Billions of dollars spent on the drug war was spent on drug Education to teach people to use drugs safely and the tax dollar revenue and the redirection of the Billions of dollars spent fighting a way that cannot be won. The black market is the only winners and the tax payers are the only loosers.
I'm really disgusted that this has even made this far.I realize marajuna is a never ending "cash cow", but did we forget that advertizers target the easily manipulated. You know... "children"!!! Food, Clothes,TV shows, music. I'm 26yrs old. You know when I liked candy, jumped at brownies, tried smoking? When I was 10!!!! Please don't turn our children into even bigger cash cows
Seems to me if you want to serve you serve people should be aloud to serve our country and we should be proud despite their sexual orientation.
As I have smoked 5 or more joints a day for the past 40yrs I'm a prime example of a cronic user.I've raised two very well adjusted girls , own our own home and have held high positions at our jobs because I was never late due to a hang over and took pride in my work and I could be trusted to get the job done. It's not acid I dont see colors and I've never seen flying elephants so unless you have never tried it you cant judge the effects.I dont hide my use even from my boss who drinks like a fish and has 2 or 3 good excuse a week why she is late or to ill to even show up.
Do you people even realize that before the "debate" on health care reform started the Dumbocrats changed the rules of the debate so that the Republicants couldn't raise their concerns? or doesn't it matter to you.
The healthcare bill is a tax increase for me. And I make less than $250,000 / year.
I have $5000 deducted pretax from payroll each year to fund a flex spending account. The bill caps flex spending contributions at $2500. My daughter has type 1 diabetes, and her medications and suppIies are costly. I am fortunate that I can provide for her needs. I am a single parent, and I am not looking for the government to provide anything additional to me. I agree that taking care of people in need is a civic duty. It's also clear to me that the only people the fed can tax or penalize are people that have something to lose, even if it isn't very much.
Personally, I am strongly against abortion as an option for unwanted pregnancies except in response to rape or a medical situation that threatens a mother's life. However, I respect each individual's right to make that personal choice. Our democratic and judicial processes have established that our government has no right to make that choice for us. How hypocritical for extremist "pro-lifers" to be threatening to KILL some one for participating in the democratic process!
Dr Tavers points this morning were great. I wish she would have responded to John's comment about starting even earlier to prevent obesity.
The Women infant and children supplemental nutrition program (WIC) supports pregnant women, promotes breastfeeding and provides wholesome foods, including fresh fruits and veggies and nutrition counseling for children up to five years old.
Some headstarts recruit pregnant women for child care and education for infants as early as 6 weeks.
I hope as the obesity initiative and the health care goes forward that we don't spend additional funds to recreate the wheel when there are viable, successful programs already in place. Just work and fund to make them better.
Rep Boehner claimed HCR would pass over his dead body & it would cause Armageddon. Both he & the country are still standing. Rush stated if the bill passed, he would move to Costa Rica. He's still in FL.When Wolf Blitzer explained to Sen Kyl that the CCN poll he was referring to included 12% weren't happy that it didn't go far enough & that a new Gallup poll showed a majority of Americans were happy about the bill's passage, he stated he didn't believe it. Why does anyone believe anything the GOP says?
Dont ask dont tell... I served 11yrs in the military on submarines mostly during the Clinton generation. We are human beings, I was stationed underwater 3 months out then 3 months on shore, some fast attacks do 1 year tours around the world. While it was politically incorrect to have suggestive pictures of our wives/girlfriends apparently it is now okay to have homosexuals to have live pictures of shipmates in public showers. Before I hear the excuse, "well that doesnt mean he is attracted to him" after 3 months or more you are going to want to look. Its an invasion of privacy. If not than go ahead and put porn back on public TV.
i agree that weed should be legal and taxed we need the money and people will feel safer buying it from a "cafe" rather than on the streets more and more people are useing it and instead of give there money to drug dealers it could be use to fix rodes and not buy guns
I have one of interest:
I’m a therapist (one among three in our region) who in December was reduced to 32 hours which resulted in loss of medical coverage provided by the agency due to budget cuts to medical reimbursements. We where offered Cobra to continue which would be appx 599.00 a month not counting deductibles and copays... Government stimulus allowed for a reduction for 15 -18 months which would reduce the monthly rate to 210 appx a month. I resigned from my position and accepted another position fulltime which did not have insurance but discussed willing to pay the 210 a month to continue the Cobra. When I applied I was denied the stimulus portion stating that I had resigned my position voluntarily (which was not why I had lost my insurance) and told that I must pay from the original enrollment date which would be appx 2500 up front and the appx 599.00 each month following. Now with the implementation of the health care reform I am in the income bracket that is required to get insurance or pay a penalty which cost is unknown as of yet.
It seems that the media and Democrats are hyping these few incidences of name calling and broken windows. How much of this type of activity has been directed at Republicans in the past? The media was not as eager to try to garner sympathy for Republicans as they appear to be doing for Democrats.
Democrats were threatened from within their own ranks before this insurance bill was voted on. Rahm Emmanuel appears to have done some of the threatening. Those who were undecided or were going to vote against it were subject to threats from the pro-insurance reform bill. Nasty calls to Congress are nothing new and certainly not limited to Democrats.
So on California's Pot legalization. The sale of Pot in this country Takes those that do purchase it, To poeple That are very undesirable, not very up standing people... Many have no job and sell drugs as there main source of income. In the mid-west where i live Marijuana comes from every where, Michigan, Florida and even some from California (If your luck and have alot of cash to send). Legalization Would mean We would no longer need to deal with Those Such People, People That Are slightly dangerous. Most Dealers In the Mid-west Dont Just deal Pot, Alot of them sell other drugs That put You, The buyer at risk, I personally Have Smoked Marijuana For around 3 Years. I dont use pot to "get Messed up", Like you here people say when they drink or go to bars, I use Marijuana When i get off work To relax, Clear my head, And get to sleep. National Legalization ANd Taxation could bring This country Into Lots of money To Pay for Health Care, The flop That we call The war In Iraq, and use part of the money to crack down on other Drugs Such as Cocaine Heroin, and Crystal Meth. Pot heads are in a class of their own We aren't junkies, most of us Are Hard working Men and women that use pot to relax.
Tyler L.
Indiana
Over 12,000 U.S. soldiers have been kicked out from the U.S. military for being a gay or lesbian. That amount is astonishing in the two war crises we're currently in. If you were alone in a fox hole in eastern Afghanistan fighting for your life, I bet you'd want some of those gay and lesbian soldiers back fighting with you.
As a decorated gay veteran who served before and after DADT was initiated, I'm glad to see the progress towards repealing this ignorant policy. Gay and Lesbians are just as qualified as any other member of the military to serve honorably.
I wish I could use some land to grow this substance it would help me financially,
So cigarettes, alcohol, and prescriptions are legal and have been shown to cause damage to our bodies, if not kill us. Yet pot, which has been proven to help people and never has killed anyone, is illegal?!?!? I just don't get it! Thank God for California, at first there was the Gold Rush, now we can get ready for the Pot Rush!!! Smart California. Smart.
I Agree with Mitch Dworkin – Dallas Texas (on this blog) In addition, as an outside observer I beleive that this GOP is the worst group of Politicians ever assembled in the history of the USA. They cannot construct they only know how to destruct and yes they are instigating hate and violence.
I Had respect for Mr. McCain, i though he had honor and valour, but after hearing him speak about "Pigs" in a topic, i respect him no longer.
The image of the USA is unfortunately being tarnished dramatically.
Where was CNN when those same Congress people were being threatened by progressive activitists for possibly ubstructing the healthcare bill. Wait till 2013 when this bill gets totally engaged. Then all of you will be singing a totally different tune. This is the beginning of the end of all your freedoms.......Dare CNN to put this on the air....
Didn't Bart Stupak receive nasty and threatening phone calls BEFORE he voted for the health insurance bill? When he was against the bill, I thought he said he and his family were getting these types of calls and pressure from those who were upset that he might vote against the bill.
Many lawmakers receive calls like this from upset people on both sides of issues. I don't think Democrats are the first. How many Republicans received nasty calls from the anti-war left?