Okay, enough of this stupid shit that has been going on since our election. I can almost not stand the news on a daily basis. If you are comfortable with what has been going on, then you must either be an ass, arrogant, or ignorant. Or all three. I guess, after reading Rod’s comment, total lack of concern could be an excuse.
I heard that Muhammad Ali’s son was held up at the Fort Lauderdale International Airport by immigration authorities. Do you understand that? Muhammad Ali’s son, who is Muslim, and an American, with a US passport, was detained returning from Jamaica with his mother. The guy is a millionaire, inheriting a huge amount from his father’s estate. And, once again, an American. And his issue was his religion. We can not tolerate this.
Now our immigration problem. I’ve been looking around about immigration and the majority of our illegal immigrants work in agriculture. The numbers vary, but up to 78% of farm workers in many states are undocumented immigrants. And we don’t have enough.
Please feel free to comment here about your experiences of having bad experiences with undocumented workers. Jobs that you’ve lost, crimes against you personally. Any bad experience that you’ve personally experienced. And use your real name when you comment.
I travel a ton and interact with lots of different people. I’ve never had a bad experience or know of a crime against me, by an immigrant. The “illegal immigrants” I’ve had the pleasure to meet, have been super nice, polite and, I think, add to the ability to live comfortably in our country.
Plus, who out there thinks building a very expensive wall is going to address the immigrant issue one bit? Anyone? 20 billion dollars well spent?
Mr. Trump is calling the deportation of immigrants a “military operation”. Huh?
I don’t personally know a person that would like a job that is currently being done by a illegal immigrant. Feel free to comment about the job you’d like to be doing, except for so many immigrants doing them.
We, here in the US, have many problems. But the stupid shit President Trump has been addressing aren’t those problems.
Transgender kids. Anyone out there had a problem here? Other than the kids that are struggling experiencing this?
How about dismantling the EPA? I sure don’t like clean air or water. Or all other environmental regulations.
How about not allowing certain press to attend daily briefings at the White House? Or this “fake news” rhetoric? I don’t think that Mr. Trump understands the need for press in our society. If he is so worried about fake news, then he should just stop talking so much.
Americans, historically, have taken pride in being fair. And treating others fairly. At least trying to. We’re doing neither now. Just because we were born here, doesn’t make us entitled to treat others badly. Especially poor people, with little options.
Don’t be leaving comments about sticking to cycling here. We all have a personal mandate to speak up for those that don’t have that ability. President Trump isn’t doing that. He is doing exactly the opposite. He is a horrible reflection of what a true American is all about.
What he is trying to do, so far, isn’t what needs to be addressed in our country. It is embarrassing on so many levels. More than embarrassing, it is scary.
Want this job?
Steve, Thank You!
I picked apples alongside migrant workers when I was in high school to earn some extra cash for stupid teenage stuff. If we were dependent on nonimmigrants to harvest our crops apples would be $15.00 each and asparagus would be unaffordable to all but the billionaire class.
There was a study that the parts of the county that most opposed to immigrants are the places that have the fewest. Where there is a higher concentration most people don’t really care.
What a mean, vindictive and uncaring and we are becoming.
Steve,
I like you & enjoy your blog but respectfully disagree. What you just called me is a prime example of liberal hypocrisy. “We are better than that”. I bit my tongue for 8 years, worked, paid taxes & accepted the President. Liberals always seem to have an internal itch that they just can’t scratch. The election of Trump didn’t cause liberal hate it just exposed it in my opinion. Posts like this just keep stirring the pot. I still love you man……
Hemi – You don’t have the luxury of comparing Mr. Trump to past presidents. You have the obligation to compare Mr. Trump to his actions. And how they align with yours.
If what he has been doing, aligns with how you think a president should act, then that is one thing. If you disagree with his actions, then that is another.
He is trying to set a new precedent on how our elected politicians can act. Making law that isn’t legal. Making statements that aren’t true. Many things that go against my personal morals. Forget his political alignments. It’s his actions that are deplorable.
My entire family immigrated here legally and went through the steps, took the time, had to wait, and go through the proper channels to become LEGAL citizens of this country. Why does the left think its okay to just hand out citizenships because someone is willing to will work?? We all work. Go try to obtain citizenship in another country and tell me what its like. Give me break.
Steve,
FYI I didn’t vote for him. I didn’t like him but I liked his message. I voted 3rd party. I was surprised as anyone he won. He is now the President of this country like it or not. I like the VP a lot. I like Trump’s family. I like a lot of his cabinet choices. Hopefully he will be positively influenced by these people. The country was way out of balance in my opinion. Unfortunately it took an asshole to win and hopefully do that [in my opinion].. Karma can be a bitch sometimes. I worked, paid taxes and social security for 5o years. My dad received a Purple Heart in WW2. My son was a Marine Captain and did two tours in Iraq. I respect and honor our military and law enforcement. I fly the flag right side up at my house . If all that makes me an ass, ignorant or all three who has the problem? I would have just kept my mouth shut and read all of the comments that agree with you as usual, but when you start throwing darts at me personally that’s enough. I’ll keep my mouth shut in the future if that helps.
Besides I have a maroon ’99 E350 diesel van just like yours so I can’t be too bad???
“American, historically, have taken pride in being fair.”
That’s a nice yarn, but it’s not quite true. Historically, this country was founded on unfairness. Unless, you were a white land-owning male.
This country wouldn’t have become a world power without the ownership of some people by other people. So fairness is a bit in the eye of the beholder.
That said, I agree with much of what you say.
your post today was your opinion.. 318.9 million people living here in the USA I imagine all have their opinions too.. next..
Well, I have my opinion, for what it’s worth, and It lines up pretty well with Steve’s. This is not Repub. vs. Dem. thing. As someone who leans a bit left of center, having Reagan and the two Bush’s as my POTUS never made me feel really great, but they were the president and that was that. They governed relatively sanely, supported a free press and allowed the long-term professionals in the government to do their jobs. Trump is a totally different story. It’s almost like everything he’s doing is planned out to be against our ideals as a nation. Or he’s just an out-of-control narcissist who’s being played by Steve Bannon. This is the more likely scenario and if that doesn’t scare you, I don’t know what will.
One of the first things all dictators have done in the history of the world is silencing and eliminating the press. This is what he is attempting to do.
SD-Do you think that is an option currently? Do you think your family could immigrant here under today’s circumstances and live here legally? How about if they are from Syria? Or even Mexico? What might you do if you were born in one of those countries? Anything different than the people from those countries are currently doing?
For the record, I’m not responsible for helping elect the guy. But chances of trying to understand why people support him pretty much went out the window after the first paragraph. Going the Hilllary route and, putting everyone in a big ol basket of deplorables and then asking for an open discussion–good luck. There are people like SD who have compelling argument. He doesn’t sound like any of the three things you described. And BTW, SD, congratulation to you and your family. I really do understand your frustration but we’ve all got to stop labeling everybody and find some common ground. At this point, that divide seem depressingly wide. But calling half of America names, isn’t really helping. You have always been the most open minded person and respectful of others and I have alway loved and admired that about you.
Fake news? Didn’t the liberals cry fake news first? Then they found out they lost and now when conservatives cry fake news it is wrong? Talk about hypocrisy. Free press is one thing, but when there are incidents of intentional fake news by the main stream media, then I don’t disagree with some outlets being left out of a press conference. I believe the previous President actually labeled Fox News “not a news organization so much as it has a perspective.”
Matter of perspective, I suppose
Hemi-Do you see his actions being influenced, so far, by his family or cabinet choices? I hope not, because, if so, we might be doomed.
We have many people that would govern our country without being an asshole. But, I can live with an asshole.
What I have a hard time with is the lying to the public, uniformed decisions and being just plain mean. It reflects very badly on all Americans.
Glenn-Are you going with this “fake news” deal? Really? Do you know how many examples I could give you to counter this belief? Tons. Fact check some of Mr. Trumps examples. “Enemies of the people” is his description. Enough said.
Steve,
The truth usually lies somewhere in the middle. Here is a story that I believe depicts the middle as far as immigration law goes. Putting teeth into and following the law might achieve that middle ground. There are a lot of exaggerated stories from both sides.5
http://conservativetribune.com/ice-special-agent-breaks-silence/
Add attacking anyone who opposes them verse addressing the real issues their opposition has raised.
Steve – I have one family member going through the process right now, legally, she has one more year to go and carries an active green card and is working. My family didnt come from a known terrorist safe haven, but thats another topic in and of itself. My point being is that if every single one of my family members can do it legally why cant everyone else? Don’t act like every person of middle eastern desecent or religon that is trying to become a citizen of this country is being denied because it’s not true. I have a mosque down the street with 100’s of attendees daily, not all are citizens yet but are going through the process legally and arent getting thrown out of the country.
Hi Steve,
Thanks for showing the courage to write this post. It increases the admiration I have for you. I believe Trump represents an existential threat to the republic. However, I think it’s a mistake to bad-mouth Trump supporters because it’s counter-productive. Calling some one out as an ass, arrogant, or ignorant will only serve to entrench their position. Trump has been supremely effective in cultivating a base who feel that they have somehow been wronged by Obama and that he alone can save them and “make America great again”.
I’m as angry as you are, but I think a more effective approach will be to constantly shine the light on Trump’s sickening agenda. Ask the questions:
– ACA – I believe Obama failed because he tried to compromise. He (and we) should have demanded that universal health care be the right of all citizens, in exactly the same way as is universal public education. Want to go to a private school? No problem. But it’s your right to get primary and secondary education on the public dime. Follow the money. Who benefits from the situation as it is (and which will certainly become worse as the new administration dismantles Obama’s better, but compromise-flawed, ACA)? The insurance industry, attorneys, the pharmaceutical, and medical industry administration. Insurance is a multi-billion dollar for-profit industry. The way they profit is to collect premiums and pay as little as possible for health care. Follow the money. We have the most expensive health costs in the world. Where’s the money going? Who’s paying the lobbyists?
– The Wall. Billions of dollars. An embarrassment that poisons our relationship with Mexico and makes the United States an international joke.
– Mexicans, Muslims, refugees, transgender children, LGBT, people with brown skin. Bring ’em on. Trump, in a manner typical of bullies everywhere, attacks the weak. It serves his purposes to demonize people who are “not like us” because it distracts attention from the even more onerous business he’s pushing through behind the smokescreen of daily outrageous behavior (e.g., gutting the EPA). America is a country that is make up of refugees. Anyone who is so desperate that they have to flee their country is going to work like a dog to make a good life for him or herself in the new country. Labeling immigrants “illegal” makes it easy to to demonize them and to perpetrate police state actions against them. If you don’t want “illegal” immigrants, make it easier for them to gain entrance legally.
This is getting windy. Sorry. The point I’m trying to make is that we shouldn’t get sucked into divisive name-calling. It simply reinforces the divide and so serves Trump’s purposes. He is not the buffoon he appears. He is a dangerous man with a transparent agenda.
Ask questions. Ask Trump supporters to defend their support of his actions with facts rather than knee-jerk “Obama bad, Trump good” ripostes unsupported by fact.
Get active. I write every day to Congressmen, Senators, Governors, and others in the news. Join Indivisible.com or any of the other emerging political action groups.
Let’s make America a country we can be proud of.
Keep up the good work.
Hemi,
I wouldn’t consider myself a “Tilforder” but I do read his blog on occasion. I’m an over-the-hill (wannabe) road cyclist. I don’t want you to consider my response an attack or a hate inspired response. I applaud Steve for this blog post, because I feel the topic needs to be discussed out in the open more. I know Steve probably wrestled with posting this type of content on his blog because he knew he might lose followers.
So, regarding your responses, I’m confused and I’d like to understand your perspective more. Firstly, I don’t understand your use of the term “liberal hypocrisy.” For me, hypocrisy means saying one thing then doing the opposite. You’re saying that you bit your tongue for 8 years (we’ll take that at face value), so now “liberals” should do so as well, otherwise they are hypocrites? So, you didn’t have to bite your tongue for 8 years if you disagreed with the elected leadership. In fact, as an American citizen it’s your right, if not your responsibility, to speak out against agendas and policies ushered forth by the elected leaders. I can assure you that many people on the right voiced their opinion of opposition to Obama from the beginning of his presidency. It’s not too difficult to find images of mock Obama lynching photos from 2008. Again, please don’t think I’m attacking you personally.
Your statement, “The election of Trump didn’t cause liberal hate it just exposed it in my opinion. Posts like this just keep stirring the pot” is also confusing. I think the key word here is “hate” which means different things to different people. I would argue here that “liberals,” or progressives, proactively seek to provide equal rights to gays, blacks, Muslims, transgendered people, women, Hispanics, and basically people that are disenfranchised…which is why “liberals” tend to vote for social programs designed to aid or prop up the standard of living for all Americans. By the way, granting equal rights to underserved groups does not take away your rights. I just don’t see how you can say that these “liberal” ideas are construed as hate. It seems to me that you are saying that “liberals exposed their hate” by voicing their opposition to Trump’s policies and his agenda. This is not hypocritical of liberals. They are not saying one thing and doing the opposite. Liberals are fighting for the same things they have always fought for, but Trump is now dismantling many of the social policies put in place over the last 8 years–which is fine, he is our elected leader; but, don’t construe opposition to his agenda as hate. I’ve heard this argument elsewhere, and in my opinion it is a slippery slope argument used to justify a reactive measure of censorship.
Liberals, like myself, tend to be the party of inclusion (all races, genders, religions, etc.). I draw the line when your ideology discriminates or otherwise seeks to take away the rights of others. Conservatives will call this filter a hate act against them…which is dizzying.
Voicing an opposing opinion is not necessarily hate speech. You don’t have to keep your mouth shut.
We disagree with the current direction of the country. That’s fine. I’ve shifted my investments appropriately. I’m sure we’ll both be fine.
Regarding the military sacrifice of your family members, I thank them. They’ve contributed to the foundation of a great country. I wish more people would feel compelled to do the same. Voicing your opinion doesn’t make you an ass. Wrapping yourself in your family’s military’s sacrifice or the American flag in attempt to somehow validate your argument makes you an ass. I rarely play my military Veteran card because I don’t feel it deserves any special privilege but I’m going to play it now. I don’t hate you. I value your opinion. But, don’t do that.
Trump is embarrassing our great country. I was hopeful he would calm down and do the job we elected him to do but his pettiness, thin skin and massive ego just won’t allow it.
Let’s all just agree to disagree & go for a ride. I’m outta here…..
Tom: you lost me right away saying Obama’s mistake was he tried to compromise. Talk about revisionist history. If ever there was a bill that was devoid of any compromise is was the ACA. Do you not remember the “elections have consequences” remark? How about, pass it first, read it second from Nancy Pelosi? I’m not arguing against the concept, but saying there was compromise is flat out a joke. As for the rest I’m to lazy to get into.
The concern over “Illegal Aliens” has always struck me as misguided. Aliens (and let’s be honest: we’re primarily talking about Mexicans here) are the symptom, not the disease. Mexicans aren’t coming here for the weather – they’re coming here to find work, opportunity, and the ability to provide for their families. (Yes, yes, I know there are exceptions – drug dealers, gang bangers and what not, but I would be willing to bet this is a very small % of the total.) And when you stop and think about it, this is such an incredibly American ideal – work hard, sacrifice, and take care of your family. We (and particularly conservatives) should be applauding them – they’re anathema to the welfare state. But I digress; my point is that Mexicans will continue to come here as long as there is economic opportunity in the form of employment. So, in my view, the disease is the employer, not the Alien. If you want to slow the space of illegal immigration from Mexico, you should more vigorously target their employees.
But I think that would cripple our economy. Employers hire illegals for one of two reasons: 1. They are trying to exploit cheap labor and circumvent laws/regulations/taxes that they would face if hiring documented immigrants or U.S. citizens. The 2nd, and I presume most common, motivation for employers to hire illegal aliens is simply supply and demand: Employers in certain industries need a quantity of low-wage labor that there simply doesn’t exist in the United States. So the better solution is to pursue immigration reform. A new visa platform for common laborers would be ideal. This would provide a legal means for immigrants to enter the country (and have their backgrounds checked, their activities tracked, etc.) and would provide our employers access to low-skill, low-wage labor (which can be regulated and taxed). This would end the charade of employers knowingly hiring illegals who present phony documents.
And lastly, I’ll say this: the labor market for illegal aliens is a black market – an alternative to the ordinary labor market. Have you ever purchased bike parts off Criagslist or Ebay? Did you do it because you were trying to save a buck or two? Or did you do it because the part you need/want isn’t available through the primary market – out of stock, out of production, etc? Either way, you may have paid less than market rate. You probably avoided taxes. You diverted profit from the manufacturer (admittedly though, probably not an American company), the distributor, the shipping firms, the retailer and all of their employees. Many times buying on the black/secondary market works out well for everyone. Many times it doesn’t and you find out why you got such a screaming deal. You get what you pay for. The same thing occurs in the secondary labor market.
All we heard for 8 years was that we (GOPers) have a plan for the health care insurance issue but nobody asked us. Well, none of them could ever explain what that was at the time and they are now proving that they never really had a plan.
Jeez crum I think most people reading Steve’s posts on his blog realize that.
Anyone who doesn’t understand the importance of a free press in a democracy, and thinks that a free press is the “enemy of the people” is, IMHO, an idiot.
How many journalists have been jailed so far?
Steve, You brought it up in your blog, so I wanted to express my opinion on it. It happens on both sides, I agree. The left’s claims that the right is crying foul is disingenuous. Don’t post about it if you don’t want the debate.
America is owned and run for big business. Since WWII it has been. You dont have a choice, these people the Military Industrialists, the Koch Bros and others bought the politicians a long long time ago.
The need to keep Americans in constant fear of threats, mostly made up is in order for them (the super rich) to do as they please. Trump is another puppet president who will be allowed to indulge himself while others make laws to suit their purposes for enriching themselves even further.
I fully expect a lot of blood to be shed soon in America, probably starting in Chicago and then spreading. There will be a lot of innocent people getting killed in American towns, because of their colour, religion or they are anti Trump. It could cause a civil war. There are a lot of angry people out there with short fuses and little patience.
Stay safe y’all.
Dow is closing in on 21k!!!! Great advice on the market crashing Steve!!! My brokerage accounts are glad I knew you had no idea what you were talking about!!! Making my bank accounts great again!!!
Thank you Steve.
It’s worth noting that regardless of the disagreements here, nobody has defended the detention of Muhammad Ali’s son. If this isn’t an example of our government condoning bigotry, then what is it? Is this what America is really about?
You haven’t really addressed (or even mentioned) his substantive argument here . Well done formpayinf taxes under Obama. Now please continue doing your duty as a citizeb and oppose infringement on basic rights under trump .
Tilly, for a guy who left school to ride a bike and depleat your trust fund, you make a lot of sense. “Tilly 2020!”
The amazing thing is, why can’t we get one payer health care?
Trumpet is a childish moron whose agenda is being underpinned by the equally moronic religious right. That’s why they’re not allowing muslims back in. Personally, I’ve seen that these people work hard, and are paying into the system, even if they aren’t documented. It is the very rare (we’re talking a statistical nth of a percent) who are lawbreakers, and we have that in our population of American citizens too. I see America as being in for the worst four years of our history as a country for the next four years. All those people who voted him in thinking he was going to help the middle class are going to be way worse off than before, so next election Trump will be out, along with his psycho constituency..
This pretty much says it all.
It will be interesting to see how this develops once the facts are in. It’s also worth noting Mr Ali is a member of a hate group according to the SPLC . I wonder if that is a factor in his detention?
FUCK TRUMP. That is all that can and needs to be said in a comment thread.
What a sweet day it will be when he is finally impeached.
Make it easier and faster to come in legally…like it was when our ancestors immigrated. See? Problem solved.
Steve you just contradicted yourself in 3 sentences.
“He is trying to set a new precedent on how our elected politicians can act. Making law that isn’t legal. Making statements that aren’t true.”
– I want him to set a new precedent because I don’t like what previous Presidents have done. It’s ok if we disagree on that.
– “Making law that isn’t legal” – what does that even mean? Presidents don’t make laws, they can only enforce what the Congress passes. Are you talking about Exec orders? Every President has done that and you well know it. I get it, you don’t like that he is enforcing laws that others ignored.
– “Making statements that aren’t true” well hey you got him there… Trump is clearly the first politician ever to fib a bit… come on dude, it’s ok to disagree with him but to say that he’s the first President who ever lied or distorted the truth… ha!
Hey, disagree all you want on the substance but please try to have some maturity and perspective on history here. There are a lot of people who are fed up with the politician class doing whatever the hell they want, and ignoring the clear will of the people. Enforcing laws, for example. Don’t like the law as it is? Fine, lobby your congressperson. But the President swears to uphold ALL the laws.
The seeds of Nuremburg.
I don’t think anyone reading your blog is going to want a job taken by illegal immigrants. Cycling is a high middle class and up sport in the US.
The issue with muslims that I see happening all over Europe is that it isn’t the original immigrants who are causing the issues, it’s the second generation. They aren’t “assimilating” anywhere in Europe that they’ve been allowed into. If Muhammad Ali’s son is of that same mindset, maybe that’s why they’re not allowing him back in. And before everyone starts attacking me, consider this: Remember your adolescent rebellion period? In Europe, it’s the second and third generation of muslim immigrants who are rioting, raping, bombing etc…and it could happen here too. Parents come in peacefully, but many in the second and third gen want Islam to dominate. It’s inherent in any religion, just look at the Crusades for example. Religion has been a huge cause of conflict for thousands of years, and people are living in a naive reality if they think it’s not going to be an issue in America. Just look at our new government as a perfect example.
If I was traveling to outside our Country, I’d be embarrassed to admit that I was American. The man is just so embarrassing to listen to. I’m just hoping that he can be removed from office (one way or another).
That was clearly targeted. To send a message to Muslims that this is not a place they should be traveling to. Loud and clear.
SB-Yeah, maybe I don’t understand the difference between executive orders and law. Seems like he doesn’t either. And that is his job. The courts know the difference. They rule and he starts name calling. And when executive orders are treated like law, by ICE, then you have problems like Ali’s son had.
Lying. You are using the same argument as always. Compare Trump to Trump. Not to past presidents. Even morons can tell he is full of shit.
Enforcing the laws? There are tons of laws that aren’t enforced. How about the speed limit? Ever got a ticket for going 4 mph over the speed limit on an interstate? 9 mph over? Not me. The same with immigration. We need a certain amount of workers. Our agriculture industry will collapse without them. We’re not documenting them. Do you think that there is a system in place to document 11,000,000 people currently? I don’t think so.
Maybe he should work on setting up that system instead of trying to hire 10,000 more ICE employees, which, won’t be possible unless they lower their hiring standards and don’t train them appropriately.
ICE is currently 1,500 employees short. They have the resources, they can’t get the people. Now try to add 10,000 more of them to that equation. Probably the reason the National Guard “rumor” started. Bet that is what those guys signed up for.
Barb, you’re getting a bit self-righteous again. If people would just listen to YOU, they’d Allie OK, right? Problem solved, right? Religion is the demon, right?
The religious right have subscribed to “fake news” for decades. It’s all rooted in their belief of creationism over evolution. Science has provided objective evidence of evolution, yet fundamentalists/evangelicals deny evolution. It isn’t much of a stretch to extend the denial of objective evidence to other aspects of human activity, hence their overwhelming support of the current administration. Morals, ethics and the Constitution no longer mater to these people that claim to be deeply religious. It all about power and nothing else.
*all be
Dan-I am pretty sure that most Americans don’t want the jobs taken by most illegal immigrants. Forget cyclists.
A couple years ago, there was a huge hail storm in Topeka. Nearly all the roofs were ruined. These migrating workers, following the hail, came through and roofed. I’ve put on a few roofs. It is hard work. In the summer it is super hard work. These crews, in my neighborhood, would finish a roof at noon, go next door and start the next. The temperatures were over 100 degrees for most of that time. I have no idea how they did it. Most, if not all, were Mexican.
Actually, I’m pretty sure the American voters are the ones who said ENOUGH. Enjoy the over correction that is the Trump Administration. You can always go crying through the streets and break some shit to get your point across. That’s seems to be making real change.
I just read the article and don’t understand the outrage. Ali’s son was detained for 90 minutes, and what does the fact that he’s a millionaire have to do with anything? Lots of millionaires got what they have through illegal means. And how else are they going to screen people coming in to see if they’re terrorists? And millions of people from the middle east hate America now, can you blame them? The people that flew the jets into the World Trade Center easily got into America and went to flight school in Florida.
People don’t understand that agricultural field work is actually skilled labor. It is also physically difficult and doesn’t pay well. If you think these crackers screaming about immigrants taking jobs are 1) willing and 2) able to do this work, you are incredibly mistaken. I couldn’t believe that some of these farmers are Trump supporters. How dumb could you possibly be.
Steve, you are 100% correct, these things need to be said. Thank you !!
Misguided….spot on. I believe the conservative Cato Institute published a study about the risk of an American being a victim of any immigrant on American soil. Even when population numbers are factored in, the study found an American have an enormously greater chance of vein the victim at the hands of another native-born American that any immigrant.
I agree with you 100% on this post. My disagreement and disgust with Trump as President has nothing to do with party affiliation. It has do do with his complete disregard for all those that voted against him (who happened to be the majority by 3 million). He continues to push a racist agenda towards Muslims and Mexicans with his Muslim travel ban and call for a military type deportation operation against undocumented immigrants. He is all about slashing our health care with no back up plan, At a time when climate change is wrecking havoc, he continues to be the Denier-in-Chief. Remember his promise of coming up with a plan to defeat ISSIS in 30 days. That 30 days has come and gone. Rather than pay attention to intelligence briefings, he spends his time chastising the intelligence community for looking into how his buddy Putin has influenced the last election. As dictator-in-training he now seeks to suppress those press organizations that are critical of his administration ( another word for telling the truth). He lies to us, the American people daily about anything and everything. This is a time in this country where we as citizens need to speak up as Steve as done. If we do not then we are guilty by our silence and complicity!
Glenn, you’ve been duped.
You can see the problem in another way. The government doesn’t issue enough visa for seasonal workers that are needed in agriculture and the employers can’t find enough Americans for these jobs. The solution found was to hire undocumented workers temporally but it became permanent.
His executive order was throwing out of country people that went through the legal process such as permanent resident, visitor student.
Thanks, Steve.
Trump is not all that smart but he’s not all that dumb, either, and large sectors of the populace are now playing directly into the hands of this fascist regime. They’re tired, they’re angry, and looking for someone to blame. I can only help that the intelligence community (“Deep State”) exerts a degree of influence to get him and his cronies out, because I can’t see the fragmented Dems doing it alone.
Been reading the whole thread today and I have the same emotional responses (and facts too) to what is going on today. I liked what you said Tom. I agree with Steve on almost every single thing he said but I have started doing active political actions – writing, calling, marching and being an example of acceptance and inclusitivity. Trump and his administration have racist tendencies. You might think that America 1st will lead us down the right path but it won’t – history has show what isolationism does. Hatred of others – coached in what’s best for our country – just read the news were violence against people is growing. The worst in people is being encouraged to come out. I look at people as to their character and what I see in Trump, Bannon and yes Pence are not the characteristics that I admire. I think we all need to wake up to what is happening – slowly, subtly happening. I know people don’t like the Hitler-Trump comparisons but I hope that people see the rise to power of the Nazi’s in the same light as what is happening in this country. Are we heading for a dictatorship – turning in our neighbors, hating people who aren’t like us (white and Christian) and remaining silent until it is too late? I am an emotional person. I am a liberal and I am not excusing all the faults of previous administrations. Politicians lie – it’s how the job works BUT follow the actions – that is where we all should be afraid.
Steve keep on blogging – commenters I am glad to see such a civil tone even when you don’t agree with Steve’s posts – gives me hope and hope is what is important – hope that those that are willing to speak out against injustices continue to do so and that persuasive debate is still alive and well in America.
I’m trying hard to think of one thing that Trump has told the truth about, besides winning the election I’m sure that there are a few floating around out there. To be generous, he must have a 95% untruth rating.
Steve – Shutting down a debate by responding increduously like an authoritarian is a big problem in our immature society today. Like your “enough said” and, must be “an ass, arrogant or ignorant” comments.
And you’re doing it here. By daring people to disagree with you, then name-calling when anyone actually does, or tries to. That’s bullying.
And bullies are assholes with loud voices, but no credibility. So I know you’re not a bully – probably just really angry and lashing out at others with dfferent opinions.
Back then, everyone was welcome, except Asians.
Aaron, I have not been duped. I think for myself (and look at all sides of a story). I do not like Trump’s attitude, commentary nor all of his policies and especially his bombast. However, I think if you look at the media coverage objectively you will see a clear bias.
Take for example several articles a few weeks ago that stated that Trump only selected countries (for the ban) that he did not do business in. Clearly, that was false. Had the editor of those media outlets put an ounce of actual research into the issue they would have seen the truth quite quickly.
It happens on the right as well. Media has turned into a ratings game and only exists to drive an agenda (Fox News is complicit on the right as well). That agenda is to spread falsehoods about issues to drive this “resistance” to the right.
Now, I do think there is some good journalism out there, but the internet society we live in has almost drowned it out.
Trump reminds me what it would have been like to have Joseph McCarthy as President……Very similar personalities. Very similar methods.
So what are we saying to our immigrant workers if we aren’t willing to pay them a fair wage to pick apples? Allowing someone to be here so we can benefit from their willingness to work at a wage legal residents won’t sounds really bad, even worse than paying $15 for an apple. The market and technology will work out the wage/technology and the cost of an apple. (or whatever service illegals are performing)
Only half of Trump supporters are “deplorable”. The rest have their own reasons.
Can you give us some examples of “fake news” from Major Media sources that were not Pro Trump????
Cracker is an offensive word, you racist. Lose the anger, lose the name-calling and someone might actually listen. Probably not though.
Steve, I’m totally with you. I think anyone who supports DJT’S completely un-American bullshit needs a reality check. 45 looks more and more like Hitler every day.
+1 The whole “Orange Julius Caesar” thing was brought about by white nationalism and xenophobia. Just read the stuff Steve Bannon writes or listen to what he says. Long-term (assuming these kooks don’t start WWIII) our prospects are good as these white nationalist folks are going the way of the dinosaurs. They’ll make a lot of noise as they near extinction but the black and brown folks who replace them will generally be progressive when it comes to politics. Short-term, those who oppose the so-called president’s policies need to organize and make themselves heard in resistance, so the 4-year term (assuming he doesn’t get impeached, but then we end up with a guy who wants funerals for aborted fetuses) does as little damage to the USA’s image as possible. It’ll be a struggle, but the country will survive this fiasco.
Lance – Yes, but a true dictator actualy controls all or a majority of the press.
A dictator doesn’t have to fight the press at all – the press is under orders and little clashing occurs. It is a machine for propaganda (aka fake news) and becomes a sycophantic echo chamber without critique.
That is not what we have now. Thankfully, big media has been caught cheating, lying and being overtly partisan. Giving debate questions to their favorite candidate is just one recent, glaring example of how public trust is lost. And if your candidate was given the answers and you don’t care, then you’re a cheater and endorse cheaters. Like a cheating bicycle racer…all good, no worries because I liked that racer!
I think the media battle with the current white house is more reflective of a democracy than the past administration. It felt very authoritarian with Obama and the media…being lectured to, limiting our language, defining approriate humor, condescending newspeople and celebrity fools. Any other opinions not shared by Great Leader and his media army were obliterated. By those same “journalists” we entrusted to inquire, check and report on any and all elected officials and their cronies.
It hasn’t been a free press for many years. They were a for-sale and purchased press.
Easy, snowflake. Did any of your “cracker” ancestors get put in chains on account of their “crackerness”? Didn’t think so. Maybe lose the fake outrage and try actually listening. People are pissed for good reason these days: a fascist narcissist, with the assistance of our long time enemy, has hoodwinked the people to takeover the highest office in the country, all with the stated aim of eviscerating the proper function and purpose of government and also to enrich his political supporters. If you don’t recognize that the situation is dire, then you’re the problem. Now go ahead and defend Trump and tell us how he’s not that bad.
Just give it some time, the Trump is working on it!
You claim “If ever there was a bill that was devoid of any compromise is was the ACA.” Really? Where were you when the “public option” part was ditched? If that was left in we just might have joined MOST (all?) of the other civilized countries in the world with universal health care. I realize you might fear facts, but Google the world’s healthcare quality ratings and then compare them to % of GDP spent on healthcare. Then explain to us all how Trump and Co. will Make America Great Again….we’ll wait.
What is wrong with a pathway to a valid worker visa for those who are employed, paying taxes and do not have a criminal background? This doesn’t mean that criminals who are here illegally cannot be deported, they should be. It’s just that this administration’s actions just lack any humanity. Also, we need to be targeting criminals and terrorists based on their actions, not their religion. I grew up playing soccer at a time when US born players were a distinct minority. Through this I met people from many countries and many religions and they are all wonderful, loving, respectful people. We all have the same dreams whether we have been in this country for days or centuries. Trump, in making a single religion the scapegoat is just wrong and it’s not the country that the founding fathers envisioned. Get mad, go vote in 2018 and 2020.
I am as white as they come. German and Scandinavian. Some would define cracker as a white guy with no rhythm. That could be me? I define a cracker as racist white trash. If you are still on board with Trump at this point, that is what you are.
Anyone in this comment thread spent time in Poland or Hungary in the 70’s or 80’s?? If you havent, you have no credibilty to comment on fascism, communism, or an authoritarian government. You havent seen it, lived it, or even experienced it. Youve just read about it most likely. And you have no right to comment on the USA dream. Trump is running the country like a business and the shitheads that have not been working are now getting fired. If you think open border “lets be humanitarian first” is your idea of immigration policy. Be prepared to go the way of France, Germany, Belgium, Turkey. Good day
Trumpmania – PLEASE make a post here one or two days before the Wall Street bubble bursts (again) so we can all be smart like you and avoid the next financial meltdown by getting our retirement funds out just-in-time. Thanks in advance!
For those who think illegal immigration doesn’t have a negative impact on US employment and wages, here’s just one document that might be worth reading.
A vulnerable, but key sector of our labor force is comprised of “low-skill” US-born citizens. In this case, the impact on low-skill black men and women is investigated. Yes, illegal immigration has a negative impact. This is from 2008 – immigration has increased since then. Also key to note is that immigration is not the only cause for this sector’s downturn, but it seems to be a key part.
http://www.usccr.gov/pubs/IllegImmig_10-14-10_430pm.pdf
I completely believe immigration is essential. I prefer responsible immigration and trade policies to make it happen better and faster.
Are white supremacist bombings, murders, etc. OK? Why do you single out Muslims as people to be feared and discriminated against? Trump got elected by playing on irrational fears like these. I’m amazed at the times people who make claims like these answer “Why YES!” to the question, “Do you get your information mostly from Fox News?”
Asses, arrogant or ignorant. Just ask Steve or start your own name-calling for people you disagree with.
Most of the ag workers working for farms ranches and orchards of consequence are here through the H-2A guestworker program, that allows agricultural employers to hire workers from other countries on temporary work permits for agricultural jobs that last ten months or less. To bring in H-2A guestworkers, employers must first show that they have tried and are unable to find U.S. workers to meet their labor needs. Easy enough. Who calls the INS to report farmers that hire illegally? Other farmers that comply with the current program. Your domestic produce largely comes from immigration law abiding farmers, and still will.
Steve,
What about people who value conservative Christian morals?
i get my political and life advise from a dude that has never held a real job as far as i can tell. yeah, that is what i do.
David-What do “conservative Christian morals” have to do with what is going on? Does that explain what Trump has been doing the last month +? If so, I don’t have a clue, nor do I want to, have any idea what the initial question means.
I have noticed that one common thread found in talk shows, blogs, social media, etc is when people begin to militarize every issue generally they have no idea what the topic is. Its a weird tangent I don’t understand.
Whine whine whine wait until they start drafting up your lil schoolboys to go fight some holy war! Big business has Always run this country I marched during Nixon’s reelection and before when The Body Bags were filling the west coast airports from Nam! Corporate Enterprise, Organized Religions, Mr Big Piggy Pig Men it aint never going to change Whaa Whaa. The Answer is Blowin in d Wind!
I thought Germany was actually doing pretty well right now. In WWII, not so much… I would love it if the USA could not repeat that error.
Yep. My cousin is “hoping” this will be the last year of the legal immigration process. Active green card, working. So, yeah. The only difference Steve is that we don’t come from a targeted terrorist state or religion. Think about it. There is a legal process, use it or go back!
Have you been to Germany in the last 12 months? Your WW2 reference is about as ignorant as you could get. But then again, everything you think you know you probably learned from books.
Just look and see what the unchecked immigration is doing to all the countries I Europe. Causing massive problems.
Anyone who thinks any politician or political party can fix their life is mistaken. Accept Jesus Christ today as Lord and Savior. Tomorrow may be too late.
“But the President swears to uphold ALL the laws.”
except those laws that 45 doesnt like or conflict with his desire to profiteer from the office of president.
It’s a pleasure reading this, thank you for NOT sticking to cycling. I think too many bloggers, youtubers, etc avoid the topic so as to not be controversial and lose followers.
The scariest part is that there are people that can’t see what we’ve descended into and how bad it really is.
P.S. wear a helmet.
Right on Robo! My father in law raised 6 kids and had a decent life working as a meatpacker. The company realized that it was ripe for dumbing down. The union went on strike for two years and lost. Company brought in migrant workers with little education and no English and paid them close to minimum wage and no benefits. Their families get fed at the local interfaith kitchen. Healthcare is the ER and charity clinic. Company effectively being subsidized by charity and government grants. Gotta love the MBAs. So it goes.
Just as you are Mike, bought and paid for!
Do you want to dispute the accuracy of the following two factual reports?
McConnell vowed to obstruct EVERYTHING Obama did from day 1 and that this obstruction and Obama’s failure would be a measure of success for the GOP.
2nd, Dick Cheney told Patrick Leahy to “go fuck yourself” on the floor of the Senate.
Sentient, fair minded people know what the GOP is about.
Now the GOP has unapologetically given us a degenerate.
As far as I’m concerned all of the GOP can take Cheney’s advice.